Across his discography, Burna Boy has extensively proven his unrivaled ability to stitch his melodies and lyrics over iconic samples, reimagining them into majestic new mirages and breathing new life into these timeless classics.
Many of his most accomplished records have been lifted from timeless classics across Afrobeats, R&B, Hip-hop and Pop music from different eras. A music lover by all definitions, his deep affection for music is reflected in his extensive use of the music that shaped his person and artistry.
Kwality Kontent has compiled some of the best records that prove Burna Boy is the master of samples. Check them out below.
No Sign of Weakness
Sample: Ghostface Killah – Mighty Healthy
The hypnotic melody that runs through Ghostface Killah’s explosive deep cut ‘Mighty Healthy’ off his 2000 cult classic Supreme Clientele forms the sonic architecture of No Sign Of Weakness, a raging hip-hop cut off Burna Boy’s 2025 album of the same name.
28 Grams
Sample: Marlon Asher – Ganja Farmer
In “28 Grams,” Burna pays homage to Marlon Asher’s “Ganja Farmer,” pulling from its soulful outro to create an anthem about his love for the herb. It’s a smooth reinterpretation that fuses reggae essence and Afropop.
Cheat on Me (with Dave)
Sample: Kwabs – Cheating on Me
Here, Burna lifts Kwabs’ haunting original vocal sample and reworks its melody and lyrics into a faster, bouncier rhythm. What was once melancholic becomes cool.
Giddem
Sample: Fabolous – Into You (featuring Tamia)
“Giddem” borrows its sweetness from Fabolous and Tamia’s classic duet, translating its romantic swing into a smoky, late-night jam.
Big 7
Sample: Qlas & Blacka – Willemstad
“Big 7” draws directly from Qlas & Blacka’s street anthem “Willemstad,” but Burna upgrades it into something grander. He keeps the original’s infectious rhythm intact, adding heavier drums, refined polish, and his signature larger-than-life delivery. The result feels like the same groove, only elevated to reflect his global megastar status.
Update
Sample: Soul II Soul – Back to Life
“Update,” from No Sign of Weakness samples Soul II Souls‘ 1989 Hot 100 No. 4 hit “Back to life.” Vocal samples from the record open the Burna Boy record and feature throughout as Burna Boy attempts to recreate the magic of a record VH1 ranked “Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)” number 50 in its list of the “100 Greatest Dance Songs” in 2000.
Mary Jane
Sample: Minnie Riperton – Lovin’ You
Burna turns Riperton’s delicate soul ballad into a hazy love letter to Mary Jane. The original’s light “la la la” melodies shimmer beneath Burna’s vocals, creating a dreamy fusion of sensuality and serenity.
Last Last
Sample: Toni Braxton – He Wasn’t Man Enough
The instantly recognizable guitar riff from Toni Braxton’s hit becomes the emotional foundation of “Last Last.” Burna transforms heartbreak into a raw, relatable, and universally singable anthem.
Sittin’ On Top of the World
Sample: Brandy – Top of the World (featuring Mase)
Burna flips Brandy’s late-‘90s R&B groove into a global flex anthem. The original’s smooth confidence finds new energy in Burna’s self-assured tone and booming delivery.
Monsters You Made
Sample: Michael Jackson – Dirty Diana
Diana “Monsters You Made” borrows the intensity of “Dirty Diana,” using its rebellious guitar line as a foundation for political outrage. Burna channels Michael’s fire, but directs it toward real-world injustice.
City Boys
Sample: Jeremih – Birthday Sex
“City Boys” takes the sensual bounce of Jeremih’s “Birthday Sex” and flips it into a playful, confident anthem that reflects his lifestyle.
Time Flies (featuring Sauti Sol)
Sample: Sade – The Sweetest Taboo
“Time Flies” subtly weaves Sade’s breezy rhythm into its DNA. It captures that same smooth calm, blending Afro-fusion warmth with Sade’s timeless elegance.
