Nigeria’s Grammy-winning Afrofusion superstar Burna Boy has consistently delivered standout verses on collaborations, elevating tracks with his distinct voice, lyrical depth, and infectious energy. Whether blending Afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, or R&B, his features often become the highlight of the song. Below, we break down some of the best guest verses, analyzing why they stand out in his discography.
1. “All Eyes on Me” (aka, Da Les, JR)
Why It Stands Out:
This 2014 collaboration with South African artists Da Les and JR showcases his early versatility. His verse is packed with confidence and swagger, blending Pidgin English and Yoruba for a seamless Afrobeat flow.
Best Lines:
“All eyes on me, no be lie / I dey shine like the light / If you no know, now you know / Burna Boy dey make them go low.”
His delivery is effortless, riding the beat with a laid-back yet commanding presence. The track remains a fan favorite, highlighting his ability to dominate a song even in his earlier years.
2. “Amorawa” (Wande Coal)
Why It Stands Out:
Teaming up with Nigerian R&B legend Wande Coal, he delivers a smooth, romantic verse on this 2021 track. His voice complements Wande Coal’s falsetto, creating a perfect blend of Afro-R&B and highlife influences.
Best Lines:
“If I tell you say I love you, no be lie / Girl, I go dey with you till the day I die / Amorawa, my love no dey fade away.”
His ability to switch between romantic crooning and rhythmic patois makes this verse unforgettable. The chemistry between both artists elevates the song into a modern Afrobeat classic.
3. “Tomorrow” (with Manifest)
Why It Stands Out:
Ghanaian rapper Manifest’s 2017 track “Tomorrow” features him in a reflective mood. His verse carries a deeper message about perseverance and success, delivered with his signature laid-back yet impactful style.
Best Lines:
“Tomorrow no dey promised / So I live my life like today is the last one / Every day I dey hustle / No time for the tussle.”
His philosophical approach to lyrics shines here, blending street wisdom with motivational undertones. His verse adds weight to the song, making it more than just a typical Afrobeat jam.
4. “Be Honest” (with Jorja Smith)
Why It Stands Out:
This 2019 collaboration with British singer Jorja Smith is a masterclass in blending Afrobeat with soulful R&B. His verse is smooth yet assertive, providing a perfect contrast to Jorja’s soft vocals.
Best Lines:
“If you want my love, you go need to be honest / No time for the games, I no be no contestant / Girl, you know say I dey for you, no be coincidental.”
His ability to infuse Afrobeat into a UK R&B track showcases his global appeal. The verse is catchy, heartfelt, and reinforces why he is a sought-after collaborator across genres.
5. “Simmer” (with Mahalia)
Why It Stands Out:
British singer Mahalia’s 2021 track “Simmer” features him in a sultry, laid-back performance. His verse adds a layer of sensuality and rhythm, perfectly complementing Mahalia’s soothing vocals.
Best Lines:
“Girl, you got me in a zone / Body like a rolling stone / If I love you, you go know / No go leave you all alone.”
His ability to adapt to different musical styles while maintaining his identity is evident here. His verse turns the song into a slow-burning Afro-R&B anthem.
Other Notable Features
While the above tracks highlight some of his best verses, he has several other noteworthy collaborations:
- “Own It” (Stormzy ft. Burna Boy & Ed Sheeran) – His verse on this UK-Afrofusion hit adds an extra layer of energy.
- “Location” (Dave ft. Burna Boy) – His smooth flow blends perfectly with Dave’s introspective rap.
- “Yo Fam” (Sarkodie ft. Burna Boy) – A high-energy Afrobeat verse that showcases his Ghana-Nigeria synergy.
Conclusion
His features consistently prove why he is one of Africa’s most influential artists. Whether delivering romantic lines, motivational bars, or pure Afrobeat energy, he adapts effortlessly while maintaining his unique sound. Tracks like “Amorawa,” “Be Honest,” and “All Eyes on Me” highlight his versatility and ability to elevate any song he touches.
As he continues to dominate global music, his collaborative verses remain a testament to his artistry—blending cultural influences, linguistic dexterity, and undeniable charisma.
