In a moment that will be etched in the annals of African music history, Nigerian global superstar Burna Boy has achieved a feat no other Nigerian artist has accomplished before: 10 platinum singles in France.
The latest certification, announced by SNEP (Syndicat National de l’Édition Phonographique), France’s official music certification body, recognises Burna Boy’s feature on Coldplay’s 2024 multicultural single “We Pray”. The collaborative record, which also features UK’s Little Simz, Palestinian-Chilean pop star Elyanna, and Argentine singer TINI, has topped global charts and solidified Burna’s growing stronghold in Europe, particularly in France.
With this milestone, Burna Boy becomes the first Nigerian artist to earn 10 platinum certifications in France, a mark of sustained global success and the international appetite for Afrobeats.
From Port Harcourt to Paris: A Global Journey
Born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, Burna Boy has spent the last decade reshaping the global soundscape with a genre-defying blend of Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, and hip-hop. While his music proudly draws from his Nigerian roots, it resonates deeply across borders, and nowhere is that clearer than in France.
Just last year, Burna sold out the iconic Stade de France, an 80,000-seat coliseum that has hosted legends like Beyoncé, Madonna, and Coldplay. That historic night wasn’t just a concert; it was a declaration: Afrobeats had arrived in Europe, and Burna Boy was leading the charge.
A Platinum-Studded Discography
The singer’s French-certified catalogue is impressive and diverse, spanning various albums, languages, and collaborations. His hits that have earned platinum or higher certifications in France include:
Diamond Certification
Last Last – The heartbreak anthem that became a global sensation.
On The Low – A soulful fusion of love and Afro vibes that won over French audiences.
Platinum Certification
Gbona – A powerful display of Burna’s rhythmic prowess.
YE – His breakout hit, which caught fire internationally and made an accidental viral appearance on Kanye West’s radar.
City Boy – A fan-favourite from his 2023 album ‘I Told Them,’ and a club staple across Europe.
Donne-Moi L’accord – A smooth, bilingual collaboration with French superstar Dadju.
We Pray – The recent Coldplay collab that sealed his 10th plaque.
Gold Certification
Anybody – A carefree anthem with an infectious rhythm.
Alone – A soulful, reflective single featured on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack.
For My Hand feat. Ed Sheeran – A heartfelt ballad that found a warm reception among European fans.
A Star in the City of Light
Burna Boy’s love affair with France goes beyond charts and certification plaques. In 2024, he became the first African artist to cover Billboard France Magazine, another symbolic milestone in his European takeover.
Music critics in Paris have consistently praised Burna’s ability to bridge African roots with contemporary global trends while maintaining his signature grit and storytelling. His sold-out concert at Stade de France was more than just a live performance; it was a cultural movement, with thousands of fans chanting Yoruba-infused lyrics in unison.
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Looking Ahead: No Sign of Weakness
While many artists would rest on their laurels, Burna Boy does the opposite. With the momentum of his platinum streak, the 11-time Grammy nominee is preparing to unleash his eighth studio album, No Sign of Weakness, scheduled for release in late 2025.
In what’s shaping up to be one of the year’s most anticipated albums, Burna has already released five singles, each showcasing different sonic palettes. The most recent drop, “Tatata”, features none other than Travis Scott and is laced with Brazilian funk influences, once again proving Burna’s versatility and boundary-pushing artistry.
The question on everyone’s lips is, Can Burna Boy top his previous albums, African Giant, Twice As Tall, Love, Damini, and I Told Them, all of which earned Grammy nominations?
If history is any indication, the answer is yes.
Streaming Records and Global Reach
Beyond certifications, Burna Boy has also made history as the first Nigerian artist to have three albums surpass 500 million streams on Spotify. His global fanbase stretches from Lagos to Lisbon, Accra to Amsterdam, and London to Lyon.
His social impact is equally massive. Through music and interviews, he often uses his platform to address African identity, freedom, and politics. As much as he’s a musical force, he’s also become a symbol of African excellence on the world stage.
Burna Boy’s 10th platinum plaque in France isn’t just a personal win; it’s a victory for African music, Afrobeats, and a continent whose sound is now the heartbeat of global pop culture. As he prepares to usher in a new era with No Sign of Weakness.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Burna Boy’s French Success
Q: What does it mean to go Platinum in France?
A: In France, a single is certified Platinum when it hits 30 million streams (or equivalent sales). It’s a prestigious recognition managed by SNEP.
Q: How many Platinum singles does Burna Boy now have in France?
A: Burna Boy has 10 platinum-certified singles in France, making him the first Nigerian artist to achieve this milestone.
Q: Which of Burna Boy’s songs is most successful in France?
A: Last Last and On The Low are his most successful tracks, earning diamond status. Other heavy-hitters include Gbona, YE, City Boy, and his Coldplay collaboration, We Pray.
Q: When is Burna Boy’s new album coming out?
A: His eighth studio album, No Sign of Weakness, is slated for release in 2025.
Q: Has Burna Boy performed in France?
A: Yes! He sold out the 80,000-capacity Stade de France, making him the first African artist to do so.
Q: Is Burna Boy the most internationally successful Nigerian artist?
A: By many metrics, streaming numbers, certifications, sold-out arenas, and awards, yes, Burna Boy is one of, if not the most successful, Nigerian artist globally.
