Burna Boy Opens Up on the Odd Armpit Myth Around His Fame

Nigerian Afrobeats icon Burna Boy has addressed one of the strangest misconceptions about his life that his unshaved armpits are the secret behind his global stardom.

Speaking in a recent interview with Apple Music, the Grammy-winning singer laughed off claims that some people in Nigeria believe his success is tied to voodoo powers hidden in his armpits.

“When people see that I don’t shave, they start saying wild things. Some even compare it to Samson in the Bible, who was said to draw strength from his hair,” Burna said.

He admitted that the rumor was so unusual that he once tried to research whether such a thing could even be possible.

“In Nigeria, you hear crazy things. Some people swear my power is in my armpits, like some kind of voodoo. I don’t even know how to explain it. It’s just dumb sh*t going around,” he added, laughing.

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The “On the Low” hitmaker made the remarks when asked to share the biggest misconception about himself, clarifying that the armpit theory is nothing more than a baseless myth.

In the end, Burna Boy made it clear that his global success has nothing to do with unshaved armpits, just talent, persistence, and a sound that keeps the world listening.”

Burna Boy, born Damini Ogulu, has risen to become one of Africa’s biggest musical exports. Blending Afrobeats with dancehall, reggae, and hip hop, he has carved out a unique sound that resonates globally.

His 2019 album African Giant earned international acclaim, while his 2020 project Twice As Tall won him a Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album, making him the first Nigerian artist to achieve that honor.

With sold-out shows in major arenas like Madison Square Garden and collaborations with global stars such as Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, and Stormzy, Burna Boy continues to cement his place as a trailblazer taking African music to the world stage.