Controversial American media personality DJ Akademiks has made a bold claim that Nigerian singer Burna Boy is more successful than American rapper Gunna. The statement came during a recent episode of his podcast, where Akademiks was reacting to the growing speculation about Burna Boy’s romantic involvement with Gunna's ex-girlfriend, Chloe Bailey.

Burna Boy and Chloe Bailey have sparked relationship rumours after they were spotted holding hands while leaving a club in Lagos, prompting widespread media attention. Akademiks, who is known for his provocative statements, took the opportunity to discuss the dynamics of the potential romance between the two celebrities.

In the podcast, DJ Akademiks said:

"We just keep seeing them [Burna Boy and Chloe] together. Remember, she used to date Gunna. She’s being cosy around Burna Boy now. I keep telling you, women don’t date down, they date up. Burna Boy is a more successful artist than Gunna. Get mad all you want. That’s the fact. Burna is an international artist. He might not sell more units than Gunna in the United States but he’s more successful worldwide. So Chloe being with him is not a downgrade."

A Controversial Yet Intriguing Comparison

The statement by Akademiks has stirred debate, as it brings into question what defines success in the music industry. While Gunna, known for his successful career in the hip-hop scene, has made a significant impact in the United States, Burna Boy’s global influence, particularly in Africa, Europe, and other parts of the world, has elevated him to international stardom.

Burna Boy’s rise to prominence, particularly with his Grammy win and global collaborations, has earned him a reputation as one of Africa’s biggest musical exports. His music resonates with a diverse international audience, from the UK to Latin America, further cementing his status as a global phenomenon. Gunna, on the other hand, while a household name in the rap scene, has not yet attained the same level of international recognition, despite his success in the US.

Opinion: Defining Success in the Global Music Industry

DJ Akademiks’ comparison between Burna Boy and Gunna brings to light the ongoing conversation about what success truly means in the music world. Is it about local chart performance, international recognition, or the ability to influence culture globally?

Burna Boy’s success is undeniably global, transcending borders with his Afro-fusion sound, which has made him a trailblazer in the African music scene. Gunna, while undeniably talented, remains primarily popular in the US, which limits his global reach compared to Burna’s far-reaching influence.

The music industry is evolving, and artists like Burna Boy are proving that success isn’t just about selling units or topping charts in one country. It’s about connecting with audiences worldwide and making a cultural impact on a global scale. For Chloe Bailey, being with Burna Boy, if the rumours are true, could indeed be seen as a step up—not just in terms of celebrity status, but in terms of the influence and success that comes with being linked to an artist who is reshaping the global music landscape.

In the end, DJ Akademiks’ statement might ruffle some feathers, but it highlights an important shift in the industry—success is no longer measured by local fame alone; it’s about global recognition and the cultural footprint left behind. For Burna Boy, it’s clear he’s not just part of the conversation—he’s leading it.