Many Nigerian music fans were shocked to hear that Burna Boy lost the Grammy Award to legendary singer, Angelique Kidjo.
However, even though the hope that Nigeria will win a second Grammy this year was dashed, Angelique Kidjo still honoured the ‘African Giant’ crooner and dedicated the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary World Music Album to him.
Burna Boy was nominated in the category for his acclaimed album ‘African Giant’.
Best World Music Album Nominees
“Gece” — Altin Gün
“Celia” — Angelique Kidjo (Winner)
“What Heat” — Bokanté & Metropole Orkest; Jules Buckley
“African Giant” — Burna Boy
“Fanm D’ayiti” — Nathalie Joachim with Spektral Quartet
Kidjo who sings in more than five languages and whose career has spanned almost four decades was gracious in receiving the award, which is her fourth, and dedicated it to Burna Boy.
“This is for Burna Boy,” she said, lifting up her award to cheers, and declaring the “African Giant” as part of the new generation of African musicians that are changing the global perception of Africa and its music.
A win for Burna would have made it the second time a Nigerian would be returning home with the Grammy plaque. Sikiru Adepoju is the only Nigerian to have won a Grammy. He won it in 2009 with the “Global Drum Project” a collaborative album with Mickey Hart, Zakir Hussain, and Giovanni Hidalgo.
Burna Boy had trended virtually throughout last week as fans, anticipating the awards, took to social media to express their love and support for him.
See how music lovers are reacting to his loss.
Best World Music Album Nominees
“Gece” — Altin Gün
“Celia” — Angelique Kidjo (Winner)
“What Heat” — Bokanté & Metropole Orkest; Jules Buckley
“African Giant” — Burna Boy
“Fanm D’ayiti” — Nathalie Joachim with Spektral Quartet
