Burna Boy Faces Backlash After Denver Show, Tour Cancellations

Afrobeats singer Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, is facing growing criticism following a series of incidents during his U.S. tour. Known for his energetic performances and large fan following, the Grammy Award winner is now at the centre of online debate over his behaviour on stage.

Denver Incident Sparks ControversyThe debate began at Burna Boy’s Denver show, where he paused his performance to have a female fan removed from the venue for appearing to sleep. Video clips circulated widely on social media, drawing mixed reactions. Some defended the artist, citing the need to maintain show energy, while others criticised him for embarrassing a paying fan.

Burna Boy addressed the incident on Instagram on November 19, writing that he was “bulletproof” to criticism and compared the situation to being removed from a plane for causing discomfort. His statement, in which he said he would “gladly be cancelled,” drew both support and further criticism.

Houston Coffee GestureDays later, at his Houston concert, a coffee stand offered free drinks to attendees. The gesture, intended as a fan-friendly initiative, was interpreted by some on social media as a possible PR move following the Denver backlash. Discussions also suggested the coffee might have been a subtle message discouraging fans from sleeping during performances.

Comedian Mc Lively Critiques PerformanceComedian Michael Amanesi, known as Mc Lively, criticised Burna Boy’s late arrival and conduct at the Houston show. He described attendees waiting for hours and expressed frustration at the singer’s perceived arrogance and lack of apology, adding another layer to the ongoing debate about his tour behaviour.

Cancelled Shows in Minneapolis and ChicagoBurna Boy’s Minneapolis and Chicago shows, scheduled for November 28 and December 1, were marked as cancelled on Ticketmaster without explanation. No official statements were issued by the artist’s team or the venues, fueling speculation among fans and media.

Online Reactions and DebateOn X (formerly Twitter), Nigerians and fans worldwide hosted Spaces to discuss the incidents. Opinions remain divided, with some defending Burna Boy and others citing a pattern of disrespect toward fans. The situation has become a chain of controversies rather than a single moment of backlash, raising questions about whether Burna Boy is entering the realm of cancel culture or facing a temporary wave of criticism.

The Grammy-winning singer continues to enjoy significant support, but the recent incidents highlight the complex relationship between global performers and their audiences in the social media age.