On March 2nd the African Giant known as BURNA BOY came to perform in Boston and was the first “African” artist to sell out TD Garden. That’s 20,000 seats filled with people from all over the New England area eager to see the MC perform.
Hiphop has had the charts and popular culture in a chokehold for the past three decades. However over the past ten years or so, we have begun to see an emerging competitor in the genre most know as Afro-beats.
The genre has been popular and widely recognized in various African countries and communities across the world. However, it wasn’t until the past several years the sound has been getting mainstream recognition.
Some may credit Drake for being the beacon for shining light on the eclectic sounds of Africa on his Views album, with appearances from Wizkid and other African artists. But with deeper observations and consideration it is apparent that a deeper phenomenon may be occurring.
America has always been known as the land of migrants and foreign influence. Here in the Commonwealth, we are honored to have communities from all over the world. Burna himself hails from the country of Nigeria, so you know his community was present to support him.
During the performance, Burna Boy took the time to honor a large community here in New England, the community from Cape Verde. Cape Verde has had a long history and relationship here in Boston and neighboring cities as they are credited of being whale hunters back in the 1700s, providing valuable oil for the colonies of America.
Cape Verde and Nigeria are not the only countries with a sizable community here in Boston, Liberians, Ghanaians, Moroccans, Senegalians and many other communities are present here in MA. That fact can be reflected in the city’s new branding of Nubian square formally known as Dudley. The transition was swift and happened several years ago now. It may have been a bit odd to some at the time but it seems to be making more sense or at least the vision and message is more clear.
Boston City Council took the time to honor Burna Boy’s success by what Gisthounds described as, ‘highlighting his impact on the city’s cultural scene.’ The African Giant was presented with a plaque of recognition and officially naming March 2nd, ‘Burna Boy Day’.
It is beautiful to see the progression of American popular culture and the inclusion of Africans. After all African-Americans have been the beacon of popular culture for a long time now, it’s nice to see the return to its roots and the celebration of such acts. 
Photo cred: @socialsane @blacvolta📸