Burna Boy Faces US Backlash Over Concert Ejection

Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy, known as the self-proclaimed African Giant, faces growing backlash from American audiences following a heated incident at his Denver concert where he halted the show to eject a sleeping couple from the front row. ​ The Grammy winner expressed frustration, stating he would not continue until they left, prompting security to escort them out as clips went viral online. ​ This event, part of his ongoing NSOW Tour, has fueled accusations of arrogance, contrasting with his tolerance for similar behavior from Nigerian fans. ​

Chaltu Jateny, the woman involved, revealed she was mentally and emotionally exhausted after the recent death of her daughter’s father, attending the show for distraction before fatigue set in. ​ She emphasized paying for her ticket and called the public ejection humiliating, urging compassion since personal struggles remain unseen. ​ Her response on social media amplified outrage, with many criticizing Burna Boy for lacking empathy toward paying supporters. 

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In an Instagram Live session, Burna Boy doubled down, declaring he now seeks only affluent fans amid tough times, dismissing others as uninvited. ​ This remark intensified calls to cancel him, coinciding with reports of five arena dates scrapped from the NSOW Tour due to plummeting ticket sales, including one 18,000-capacity venue selling just 2,000 seats. ​​ Later, during a Dallas performance, he issued a partial apology, admitting a “slip of the tongue” affected sales and even his merchandise. ​

Burna Boy’s history of demanding high energy from crowds, including past pauses and fan confrontations, now collides with US expectations of artist humility. ​ While loyal supporters defend his stage standards, the controversy highlights risks of alienating global audiences through perceived insensitivity. ​ Industry observers note potential long-term damage to his international draw, once bolstered by his 2021 Grammy win.