'I leave my soul on every stage' - Burna Boy fires back at critics in explosive IG rant

Burna Boy Fires Back at Critics, Addresses Fan Behavior and Media Scrutiny in Candid Instagram Rant

Nigerian music superstar Burna Boy has broken his silence amid growing criticism over his recent behavior. Taking to Instagram Stories on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the Grammy-winning artist delivered a series of fiery posts defending himself, responding to backlash, and clarifying the context behind his earlier remarks.

In multiple slides, Burna Boy spoke openly about fan conduct, media narratives, and the immense pressure of living under constant public scrutiny. According to him, much of the controversy grew out of misunderstanding and online exaggeration.

Addressing claims that he doesn’t appreciate his supporters, Burna Boy wrote:

“Btw I was joking around with my band about something else. Not necessarily this situation and y’all have spun it as usual saying ‘Burna Boy doesn’t love his fans.’ If you hate me so much either kill me or leave me alone. I’m fighting my own battles… I love who loves me and respect who respects me.”

He ended the message with a broader call for global justice:

“Free Sudan, Free Congo, Free Nigeria.”

The singer emphasized his commitment to performing, noting that he gives everything on stage regardless of the audience size. However, he pushed back strongly against what he considers inappropriate fan behavior:

“I leave my soul on every stage… and I will gladly be cancelled if we are now in a world where you can treat me like a stripper, slap my ass and tell me to keep dancing cuz you throw $100 at me.”

Drawing comparisons to conduct expected in professional environments, he continued:

“If you make the pilot uncomfortable in a plane you bought a ticket for, you will be deboarded or arrested… you pay school fees but you will be kicked out of class if you make it uncomfortable for the teacher to do his job.”

Despite his frustration, Burna Boy offered a conditional and self-aware apology:

“I sincerely apologise if I’m wrong. I’m not always right but I feel right about this. Anyway I’m just human so fk me.”

He also criticized what he described as the media’s selective reporting and the public’s eagerness to amplify negativity:

“They never post any of the good I do in this world but they go wild and viral when they feel I’ve finally ‘fked up’… I’ve seen people who NEVER even acknowledged my existence now posting how ‘This is not cool.’”

Burna Boy’s posts mark his most direct and unfiltered response to the ongoing criticisms, reflecting a deepening frustration with what he sees as skewed narratives about his relationship with fans and the media. The outburst has sparked fresh conversations online about celebrity boundaries, fan entitlement, and the toll of constant public attention.

x.com