When it comes to electrifying performances and unforgettable live shows, Burna Boy never fails to disappoint his fans. The Nigerian superstar has gained international acclaim for his unique blend of Afrobeat, dancehall, and reggae music. As he embarked on his highly anticipated “I Told Them” tour, fans were eagerly awaiting the chance to witness his captivating stage presence and experience his chart-topping hits live.
In this blog article, we will take a deep dive into the setlist of Burna Boy’s “I Told Them” tour, exploring each session and providing a comprehensive overview of the incredible performances that left audiences in awe. From his iconic opening number to the breathtaking encore, we will dissect every moment that made this tour a truly unforgettable experience.
Opening Act: Setting the Stage on Fire
The tour kicked off with a bang as Burna Boy took the stage to perform his high-energy opening act. With the crowd chanting in anticipation, he started the show with his infectious hit, “Ye.” The pulsating beats and the artist’s commanding presence set the tone for an electrifying evening.
As the lights dimmed, the stage came alive with a burst of energy. Burna Boy emerged from the shadows, surrounded by a mesmerizing light display that enhanced the anticipation in the air. The crowd erupted in cheers as the first notes of “Ye” reverberated through the venue, instantly creating an electric atmosphere. Burna Boy’s infectious energy was palpable as he delivered the song with gusto, captivating the audience from the very first moment.
The Power of “Ye”
“Ye” has become an anthem for Burna Boy and his fans, symbolizing resilience, self-affirmation, and the ability to rise above adversity. As the opening number, it served as a powerful statement, instantly connecting with the audience on an emotional level. The infectious rhythm and catchy chorus had everyone singing along, creating a sense of unity and celebration.
Paying Homage to Afrobeat Legends
Burna Boy’s deep appreciation for Afrobeat music was evident in this session. He paid homage to legendary artists such as Fela Kuti and King Sunny Ade, performing their iconic songs in his own unique style. The audience was transported back in time as Burna Boy flawlessly blended classic Afrobeat rhythms with his contemporary sound.
The stage transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colors as Burna Boy delved into the Afrobeat classics. With a live band backing him, he seamlessly transitioned from one iconic song to another, capturing the essence of the original while adding his own touch. The crowd couldn’t help but dance and groove to the infectious beats, paying tribute to the rich heritage of Afrobeat music.
A Tribute to Fela Kuti
One of the standout moments of this session was Burna Boy’s tribute to the legendary Fela Kuti. With a medley of Fela’s hits, Burna Boy channeled the spirit of the Afrobeat pioneer, delivering a performance that was both nostalgic and fresh. The audience was transported back to the heyday of Nigerian music, witnessing the seamless transition from past to present through Burna Boy’s electrifying stage presence.
Showcasing Chart-Topping Hits
This session was a crowd favorite, as Burna Boy performed his chart-topping hits that have dominated the airwaves. From “On the Low” to “Anybody” and “Gbona,” each song had the audience singing along, creating an electric atmosphere that reverberated throughout the venue. The energy was palpable as Burna Boy effortlessly delivered hit after hit.
As the session began, the stage was bathed in a sea of vibrant lights, setting the scene for a memorable performance. The crowd erupted in cheers as the familiar chords of “On the Low” filled the air, signaling the start of a hit-filled session. Burna Boy’s smooth vocals and captivating stage presence drew the audience in, immersing them in a world of infectious melodies and irresistible rhythms.
Unleashing the Hits
Burna Boy showcased his versatility as an artist in this session, seamlessly transitioning from one hit to another. Each song brought something unique to the table, showcasing different aspects of Burna Boy’s artistry. “Anybody” had the crowd bouncing to its infectious reggae-inspired beat, while “Gbona” ignited a frenzy of dance moves and sing-alongs. The audience was completely enthralled, reveling in the opportunity to witness these chart-toppers come to life on stage.
Collaborations: Surprise Guests and Unforgettable Duets
Burna Boy is known for his impressive collaborations with both local and international artists. In this session, he brought out surprise guests to join him on stage, creating magical moments of musical synergy. From thrilling duets to unexpected mash-ups, the audience was treated to a series of unforgettable performances that showcased Burna Boy’s versatility as an artist.
As the lights dimmed, the stage was set for a series of surprises. The crowd held their breath in anticipation, wondering who would join Burna Boy on stage. One by one, special guests made their appearances, igniting a wave of excitement and applause. The chemistry between Burna Boy and his collaborators was undeniable, as they seamlessly blended their unique styles and voices.
A Global Stage for Collaboration
Burna Boy’s collaborations span across continents and genres, and this session was a testament to his ability to bridge musical boundaries. From fellow African artists like Wizkid and Davido to international stars such as Stormzy and Jorja Smith, Burna Boy brought together a diverse range of talents. The crowd was captivated by the chemistry between Burna Boy and his collaborators, witnessing the magic that can happen when artists from different backgrounds come together.
Intimate Acoustic Set: Stripping it Down
In a moment of pure intimacy, Burna Boy took a break from the high-energy performances and treated the audience to an acoustic set. Armed with just his guitar, he delivered stripped-down versions of his popular songs, allowing his raw talent and soulful vocals to shine through. This session provided a refreshing contrast and showcased Burna Boy’s versatility as an artist.
The stage transformed into an intimate setting as dim lights illuminated Burna Boy sitting on a stool, guitar in hand. The audience fell into a hushed silence, eagerly awaiting the acoustic renditions of their favorite songs. The stripped-back arrangements allowed Burna Boy’s voice to take center stage, showcasing the depth and emotion behind his lyrics.
A Soulful Journey
During the acoustic set, Burna Boy took the audience on a soulful journey, reinventing his songs in a way that added new layers of emotion. Each strum of the guitar and every note sung with heartfelt passion created an atmosphere of intimacy and vulnerability. The crowd hung onto every word, caught up in the raw beauty of Burna Boy’s voice and the stripped-down arrangements.
The Emotional Ballads: Heartfelt Moments
Burna Boy’s music is often characterized by its emotive lyrics and heartfelt storytelling. In this session, he delved into his repertoire of emotional ballads, captivating the audience with his powerful vocal delivery and poignant lyrics. From “Another Story” to “Monsters You Made,” each song left a lasting impact, taking the audience on an emotional journey.
The stage was bathed in a warm glow as Burna Boy began this session, setting the mood for a series of emotional ballads. The audience was transported to a place of introspection and reflection, as Burna Boy’s voice soared through the venue, carrying the weight of the heartfelt lyrics.
A Tribute to the Struggles
During this session, Burna Boy delved into the socio-political themes that often permeate his music. Songs like “Another Story” shed light on the struggles faced by the people of Nigeria and the need for change, while “Monsters You Made” explored the impact of colonization and the burden it has placed on the African continent. Each performance was imbued with a sense of urgency and a call for collective action.
Afro-fusion Extravaganza: A Fusion of Cultures
Burna Boy’s music is a true reflection of his Nigerian roots and his global influences. In this session, he showcased his unique Afro-fusion sound, blending traditional African rhythms with elements of hip-hop, reggae, and dancehall. The stage came alive with vibrant colors, energetic dancers, and infectious beats, creating an extravaganza that celebrated the richness of African culture.
The session began with a burst of energy as the stage transformed into a vivid tapestry of African aesthetics. Dancers clad in vibrant traditional attire took the stage, moving in sync with the infectious rhythms. Burna Boy’s commanding presence added to the sense of grandeur, showcasing the power of Afro-fusion music.
A Global Celebration of African Influence
During this session, Burna Boy celebrated the diverse influences that have shaped his music. From the pulsating rhythms of Afrobeat to the infectious energy of dancehall, each song showcased a different facet of the Afro-fusion genre. The stage became a melting pot of cultures, highlighting the interconnectedness of African music and its global appeal.
The Encore: Leaving the Audience WantingMore
As the show neared its end, Burna Boy left the audience craving an encore. Returning to the stage for a final performance, he delivered a show-stopping rendition of his biggest hit, “African Giant.” The crowd erupted in cheers, singing along to every word, as Burna Boy left a lasting impression with his unparalleled stage presence and infectious energy.
The stage was set ablaze with a dazzling display of lights and pyrotechnics as Burna Boy took center stage for the encore. The opening chords of “African Giant” resonated through the venue, instantly captivating the audience and reigniting their excitement. Burna Boy’s commanding presence and powerful vocals drew everyone in, creating a collective moment of pure euphoria.
A Celebration of African Greatness
The encore performance of “African Giant” served as a triumphant finale to the “I Told Them” tour. The song itself is an anthem of empowerment and self-assurance, embodying Burna Boy’s journey to becoming one of Africa’s biggest musical exports. The crowd sang along with passion and pride, embracing the message of unity and celebrating the African spirit that Burna Boy embodies.
Unreleased Gems: Exclusive Previews
In a special treat for his dedicated fans, Burna Boy took the opportunity to showcase some unreleased tracks from his upcoming album. This session provided a sneak peek into his creative process and allowed the audience to be among the first to experience his new music. The excitement was palpable as fans eagerly anticipated the release of these exclusive gems.
As the session began, anticipation filled the air as Burna Boy introduced the audience to his unreleased creations. Each song painted a vivid picture, showcasing Burna Boy’s evolution as an artist and his commitment to pushing boundaries. The audience was captivated by the fresh sounds and innovative production, eagerly awaiting the day when they would be able to listen to these tracks on repeat.
A Glimpse into the Future
Burna Boy’s decision to preview his unreleased music during the “I Told Them” tour was a testament to his dedication to his craft and his desire to constantly evolve as an artist. By sharing these exclusive tracks with his fans, he allowed them to embark on a journey of discovery alongside him, providing a glimpse into the future of his music and leaving them hungry for more.
Grand Finale: Going out with a Bang
The tour concluded with a grand finale that brought all the elements of Burna Boy’s exceptional artistry together. From stunning visuals to flawless choreography, this session was a true spectacle that encapsulated the essence of the “I Told Them” tour. Burna Boy left the stage with thunderous applause, leaving the audience with memories that will last a lifetime.
As the grand finale approached, the energy in the venue reached a crescendo. The stage was transformed into a visual feast, with mesmerizing projections and dazzling lighting effects. The synchronized movements of the dancers added an extra layer of excitement, perfectly complementing Burna Boy’s electrifying performances.
A Night to Remember
The grand finale was a testament to Burna Boy’s commitment to delivering a truly unforgettable experience. Every element, from the meticulously choreographed routines to the stunning visual production, came together to create a spectacle that left the audience in awe. As Burna Boy took his final bow, the applause and cheers reverberated through the venue, a testament to the impact he had made on his fans.
As the curtains closed on the “I Told Them” tour, Burna Boy once again proved why he is hailed as one of the most captivating performers of his generation. Each session of the setlist was meticulously crafted to take the audience on a musical journey, showcasing the versatility and brilliance of the Afro-fusion pioneer. Whether you were fortunate enough to witness the tour live or are experiencing it vicariously through the accounts of others, one thing is certain: Burna Boy’s “I Told Them” tour was an extraordinary spectacle that will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come.
