On February 16, 2023, Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy shared a heartfelt tribute to South African rapper Kiernan Forbes, popularly known as AKA, following his tragic death in a drive-by shooting. The incident, which occurred on February 10, 2023, outside a restaurant on Florida Road in Durban, claimed the lives of AKA and his longtime friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane. Burna Boy’s emotional response, shared via Instagram, reflects on their complicated relationship while expressing grief and a desire for justice.
A Tragic Loss in Durban
The South African music community was shaken when AKA, a prominent figure in hip-hop, was gunned down alongside his friend in a senseless act of violence. Reports indicate that the shooting took place just before 10 p.m. outside the Wish Restaurant, with two unidentified vehicles opening fire. The loss of AKA, a celebrated artist known for hits like Fela in Versace, sent shockwaves through the industry, leaving fans and fellow musicians in mourning.
Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ogulu, revealed that the news deeply affected him. “I just heard he died, seen that video at that restaurant,” he wrote on Instagram, noting how the tragedy disrupted his positive mood. His tribute, written in the form of song lyrics, captures the raw emotion of losing someone he once knew, despite their strained connection.
Reflecting on a Tense Past
Burna Boy and AKA’s relationship was not always amicable, marked by a public falling-out in 2019 amid xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa. During that period, Burna Boy had called out AKA in a now-deleted tweet, urging him to bolster his security. “Next time I see you, you better have a large security buddy,” he wrote, a statement that hinted at the tensions between them. The disagreement stemmed from differing views expressed on social media, including AKA’s earlier comments about the Nigerian soccer team, which had sparked controversy.
In his tribute, Burna Boy recalled a specific moment when AKA saw him with a gun and called him wild. Burna had advised AKA to arm himself for protection, a suggestion rooted in the realities of their environment. “Then I told you you should have one too,” he wrote, reflecting on how violence was a known risk. Despite their differences, Burna Boy emphasized that he never wished harm on AKA, stating, “I didn’t want you dead, it was like that with me and you.”
A Call for Justice and Peace
Burna Boy’s tribute also conveyed a deep sense of frustration and a hope for accountability. “Wicked! I hope they catch whoever did you wicked,” he wrote, praying for justice for AKA and Tibz. He extended his wishes for AKA to rest in peace, acknowledging that their relationship was not close but affirming their shared humanity. “At the end of the day, we some grown ass n***az,” he concluded, underscoring the maturity to look beyond past conflicts in the face of such a tragedy.
The tribute highlights Burna Boy’s ability to channel personal grief into art, using lyrics to process complex emotions. His words resonate with fans who admired both artists, serving as a reminder of the fragility of life in the music industry.
Honoring a Complicated Legacy
While Burna Boy and AKA collaborated on the 2014 track All Eyes on Me, their relationship soured over time. Yet, Burna Boy’s decision to honor AKA publicly shows a willingness to move past old disputes. His tribute not only mourns AKA’s death but also reflects on the broader challenges artists face, from personal safety to navigating public controversies. As South Africa and the global music community grieve, Burna Boy’s words offer a moment of reflection and a call for unity.
