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Nigerian Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy has sparked debate by stating that Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti did not influence him, even though he is often regarded as one of Fela’s musical heirs.

In a recent discussion with tennis icon Roger Federer, Burna Boy mentioned that although Fela had a “significant impact” on his early years, he wouldn’t consider him an inspiration.

The renowned African singer shared that his first album was a record by R&B artist Joe, which he received as a present on his 10th birthday.

HeHe added that Fela’s music entered his life via his grandfather, Benson Idonije, who was Fela’s initial manager, but he maintained it did not influence his creative path.

Burna Boyalso noted that Lil Wayne’sTha Carter III and Tupac’s Makavelialbums were the recordings that truly shaped his childhood.

When Federer asked him to identify which of those albums had the greatest influence on him, Burna Boy straightforwardly responded:

Frankly, none. Fela was a major influence, but he didn’t inspire me.

The remark has stunned numerous fans, considering that Burna Boy has frequently sampled Fela’s music in popular tracks likeYe, My Money, My Baby, and Gbona.