One of the greatest artists in the history of Nigerian and African music returns with his sixth studio album, No Sign of Weakness, a 16-track body of work that features an eclectic mix of collaborators including Travis Scott, Mick Jagger, Stromae, and Shaboozey. Let’s dive right in.
The album opens with “No Panic,” a high-energy track that immediately sets the tone. Backed by pounding drums and a syncopated bassline, Burna Boy delivers an unflinching performance as he confronts past controversies and public scrutiny head-on. His delivery is raw and unapologetic, a powerful declaration that, in the face of adversity, he remains unfazed, “zero panic,” indeed.
The title track “No Sign of Weakness” is firmly rooted in hip-hop. Here, Burna Boy showcases his lyrical dexterity and tonal range, delivering verses with the confidence of a seasoned veteran. His sample of Ghostface Killah’s 1998 classic “Mighty Healthy” threads a lane of intentionality while the track brims with bravado as he asserts his dominance and addresses his peers with veiled jabs, further reinforcing his stature in the global music scene.
The album then transitions into a more contemplative space with “Buy You Life,” a richly textured record that returns to Burna’s signature Afro-Fusion sound. Infused with introspection and emotional depth, the track explores the complex relationship between wealth, mortality, and human values. Elevated by gospel-inspired backing vocals and sweeping trumpet arrangements, the production lends a soul-stirring warmth to Burna’s reflective storytelling.
“Love” follows seamlessly, continuing the album’s introspective thread. In this emotionally resonant piece, Burna Boy delivers passionate, heartfelt lyrics about loyalty, emotional authenticity, and staying close to those who offer genuine love and support. It’s a striking moment of vulnerability wrapped in ambition, where raw emotion meets determined self-awareness.
The sonic landscape then shifts with “TaTaTa,” a genre-blending collaboration featuring Travis Scott. Fusing the pulsating rhythms of Afrobeats with the vibrant energy of Brazilian funk, the track is a much-needed cultural exchange that feels both effortless and experimental. Burna Boy and Travis move in synergy, each bringing their unique stylistic strengths to create a sound that is both fresh and globally resonant.
On “Come Gimme“, Burna Boy yearns for his partner. He plays a lot on the little pockets of the guitar strings. The lyrical technicality is a bit underwhelming here compared to previous records, but he manages to keep the flow in the loop throughout the record.
“Dem Dey” emerges as one of the album’s most anticipated tracks, and it certainly delivers. The background vocals immediately evoke the spirit of Afrobeat legends like Fela Kuti and Lagbaja, setting a nostalgic yet urgent tone. Burna Boy elevates the tempo, delivering commanding vocals and sharp lyricism that underscore his dominance. The influence of electronic dance music is unmistakable, adding a modern, energetic flair to the track. This song stands out as one of the project’s definitive heavy hitters.
The tempo slows on “Sweet Love,” a reggae-infused gem that nestles seamlessly into the heart of the album. Here, Burna Boy showcases a refined vocal cadence, gliding over the rhythm with ease and grace. The track feels intimate and grounded, offering a moment of warmth and serenity amid the album’s more aggressive cuts.
On “28 Grams,” Burna floats over the instrumental like smoke, airy, heady, and unhurried. The beat is smooth and mellow, setting the perfect backdrop for a reflective ode to his relationship with Mary Jane.
“Kabiyesi” reintroduces Burna Boy’s high-octane energy, tapping once again into the fast-paced thematic thread that runs through the album. Anchored by heavy drums and textured synths, the track benefits from Telz’s elite production, which gives it both weight and polish. Burna’s performance here is nothing short of masterful. His ability to build tension and land each beat drop with precision makes for an exhilarating listen. It stands out as one of his most compelling deliveries on the project.
The momentum carries into “Empty Chairs,” featuring the legendary Mick Jagger. This track finds Burna in reflective form, addressing his critics, online trolls, and media narratives with unflinching honesty. His writing remains razor-sharp, flowing seamlessly from bar to bar. The inclusion of Jagger adds a rock-inflected texture that enriches the sonic palette, demonstrating not only Burna’s range but also the flexibility of Afrobeats — or, as he defines it, Afro-Fusion.
Next comes the previously released “Update,” a track that was met with mixed reactions upon its initial drop. However, within the album’s context, it reclaims its strength. It’s a spirited, quintessential Afrobeats anthem that showcases Burna Boy in his most vibrant, animated form — full of rhythm, charisma, and infectious energy.
“Pardon,” featuring Belgian artist Stromae, sees Burna Boy expanding his stylistic boundaries even further. Stromae delivers a hauntingly beautiful chorus over minimalist, mid-tempo production. Burna’s verse is carefully constructed, striking a balance that complements rather than overpowers the delicate arrangement.
“Bundle by Bundle” marks its entrance with Burna Boy reflecting on the realities of his larger-than-life existence. The track serves as a snapshot of his opulent lifestyle and the pressures that accompany life at the pinnacle of artistic success. With a delivery steeped in confidence and bravado, Burna ensures that the grandeur of his world is mirrored in the music — unapologetic, expansive, and self-assured.
“Change Your Mind,” featuring Shaboozey, sees Burna Boy taking yet another bold creative leap, this time into the realm of country-inflected fusion. The track is a seamless blend of both artists’ worlds, as Burna delivers a heartfelt verse that melds beautifully with Shaboozey’s rich, melodic sensibilities. The collaboration is organic, not forced, and the result is a genre-bending moment of sincerity and sonic elegance.
The album closes on a powerful note with “Born Winner.” It opens with an interlude-like voice affirming Burna Boy’s destiny — “you were not born to lose.” What follows is a reflective, emotionally grounded performance in which Burna contemplates his journey, personal evolution, and unwavering commitment to his purpose. It is both a declaration and a reassurance. Burna Boy is here to stay. This final track encapsulates the spirit of the entire project, a victory lap from an artist fully aware of his legacy and still hungry for more. A true testimony of a born winner.
No Sign of Weakness is a bold and expansive statement from Burna Boy, an artist who continues to redefine the global perception of African music while staying firmly rooted in his cultural identity. He traverses genres, confronts his critics, embraces vulnerability, and celebrates his triumphs with masterful ease. His ability to seamlessly bridge Afrobeats with hip-hop, rock, EDM, reggae, and even country demonstrates not just versatility, but an acute understanding of global musical currents. Though No Sign of Weakness doesn’t necessarily break new ground conceptually, it reinforces Burna Boy’s stature as an artist capable of commanding both cultural relevance and sonic dominance. It is also a declaration of intent from an artist at the peak of his powers, proving once again that there is, indeed, no sign of weakness.
Lyricism – 1.7
Production/Sound Engineering -1.8
Tracklisting/Sequencing -1.5
Vocals, Delivery & Execution – 1.7
Listening Experience – 1.8
Rating – 8.5/10
Abdulmuqsit Idowu popularly knows as genio is a music critic and writer with a focus on the African entertainment industry. With a passion for music and culture, he offers insightful and honest commentary on the ever-evolving landscape of African entertainment. Follow him on X and Instagram: @justabdulmuqsit.
