'I want genuine fans, not trend followers' — Burna Boy

Nigerian music superstar and Grammy winner Burna Boy has once again sparked conversation online following candid remarks about his relationship with fans during a recent Instagram Live session.

Addressing viewers directly, the “City Boys” singer pushed back against claims that he dismisses or looks down on his supporters. He emphasized that following an artist should be a personal choice, not driven by pressure, entitlement, or social media expectations.

“True support comes naturally,” Burna Boy said, noting that it doesn’t require constant validation. He explained that he values listeners who genuinely connect with his artistic journey rather than those who follow him for clout or because he is currently in the spotlight.

The singer also added that if he gains new fans at this stage of his career, he prefers they be financially stable, implying that loud criticism often comes from those grappling with personal struggles.

Burna Boy’s comments follow a recent controversy in which he removed an audience member from a show for allegedly sleeping during the performance. The incident divided fans online, with some praising the move as protecting the concert atmosphere, while others criticized it as overly harsh.