Burna Boy’s “Update” – A Masterclass in Reinvention
Introduction
Burna Boy has consistently proven that innovation in music isn’t always about creating something entirely new. Instead, he masterfully reinterprets existing songs, infusing them with his signature Afrobeats style. Over the years, he has sampled a diverse range of artists, from Fela Kuti to Toni Braxton, and now, with his latest release, Update, he puts his spin on Soul II Soul’s 1989 classic Back to Life.
Sampling with a Twist
In Update, Burna Boy takes the well-known chorus of Back to Life and flips it into an electrifying Afrobeats anthem. While the original was a soulful pop hit, Burna reinvents it with a semi-fast tempo, making it an instant dancefloor magnet. The song’s production echoes the style of his African Giant era, emphasizing rich African percussion while minimizing orchestral elements. The result? A song that feels raw, vibrant, and deeply rooted in traditional African rhythms.
Production and Sound
The first thing that grabs attention in Update is the drumline—hard-hitting, groove-heavy, and reminiscent of his 2018 hit Killing Dem featuring Zlatan. The track is built on a foundation of African drums, complemented by a groovy bassline and subtle ponpon-style keys. Burna’s approach here is minimalist yet effective, letting the percussions carry the song’s energy while his vocals and the sampled chorus provide the main melodic elements.
Lyrical Themes
At its core, Update is a song about resilience, self-assurance, and the ability to adapt to life’s challenges. Burna Boy paints a picture of himself as someone who refuses to be held back by financial struggles or societal expectations. He presents himself as someone whose wealth and success are the direct results of hard work, emphasizing that he is reaping the rewards of his labor. Additionally, he acknowledges the ups and downs of life but asserts that he remains unfazed by obstacles. His lyrics exude confidence, sending a message that he is in full control of his destiny and cannot be undermined by critics or challenges.
Beyond financial stability, the song also touches on his artistic versatility. Burna Boy subtly reminds listeners that he can navigate different styles of music while maintaining his authenticity. He takes pride in his ability to deliver hits, regardless of the musical landscape or industry expectations. Another notable aspect of the lyrics is their cultural depth—he seamlessly weaves in Yoruba and Pidgin English, reinforcing his connection to his roots while making his music widely relatable.
In addition to these themes, Burna Boy also takes a moment to address critics, making it clear that their opinions have no bearing on his success. He suggests that those who trouble him excessively will simply be ignored or “blocked,” emphasizing his ability to shut out negativity. Furthermore, he ends the chorus with a striking metaphor, illustrating his duality by stating that he can be both a child of God and the husband of a prostitute. This paradoxical statement reflects his belief that people are complex and multifaceted, refusing to be boxed into a single category or judged by societal norms.
Comparisons and Impact
The structure and vibe of Update bear striking similarities to Killing Dem. The drum pattern, call-and-response adlibs, and vocal dominance all point to Burna Boy’s tried-and-tested formula for creating street anthems. However, Update manages to stand out due to its unique sample choice and the clever fusion of nostalgic elements with contemporary Afrobeats.
Conclusion
With Update, Burna Boy once again demonstrates why he remains at the forefront of global Afrobeats. By taking a classic and infusing it with his distinct sound, he delivers a track that is both nostalgic and fresh. It’s a testament to his ability to bridge eras, blending the past with the present in a way that feels seamless and exciting. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, Update is a track that demands attention and, more importantly, movement.
