Burna Boy's Twice As Tall Album: A 2020 Masterpiece
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into Burna Boy's iconic album*, Twice As Tall*, which dropped in 2020. This album wasn't just a collection of songs; it was a cultural reset, a statement, and a testament to Burna Boy's growth as an artist. So, let's break down why Twice As Tall remains a significant body of work and why you should definitely give it a listen (or a re-listen!).
The Significance of Twice As Tall
Twice As Tall arrived at a pivotal moment, not just for Burna Boy but for Afrobeats on the global stage. Fresh off the heels of his Grammy-nominated album, African Giant, the pressure was on. But Burna Boy didn't just deliver; he exceeded expectations. This album showcased a blend of his signature Afro-fusion sound with a more polished and globally appealing production. One of the main reasons why Twice As Tall resonated so deeply was its themes. Burna Boy fearlessly tackled issues of social injustice, political corruption, and the African diaspora's struggles while also celebrating African excellence, resilience, and unity. Tracks like "Monsters You Made" featuring Chris Martin of Coldplay directly confronted societal ills, sparking conversations and forcing listeners to confront uncomfortable truths. Then you have anthems like "Level Up (Twice As Tall)" which served as a powerful declaration of self-belief and determination. Production-wise, the album was a masterpiece. With contributions from legendary producers like Diddy, Timbaland, and LeriQ, each track was meticulously crafted, blending traditional African rhythms with contemporary sounds. This fusion created a sonic landscape that was both familiar and fresh, appealing to a broad audience without sacrificing its African roots. Twice As Tall isn't just an album; it's a movement. It solidified Burna Boy's position as a global icon and paved the way for other African artists to break into the international scene. The album's success demonstrated the growing appetite for authentic African stories and sounds, challenging Western-centric narratives and opening doors for greater representation.
Track-by-Track Analysis: Unpacking the Gems
Let's get into the nitty-gritty and break down some of the standout tracks from Twice As Tall. Each song tells a story, contributes to the album's overall message, and showcases Burna Boy's versatility.
1. Level Up (Twice As Tall)
This opening track sets the tone for the entire album. "Level Up" is an anthem of self-belief and perseverance. Burna Boy reflects on his journey, the challenges he's overcome, and his unwavering determination to reach new heights. The lyrics are both introspective and empowering, encouraging listeners to pursue their dreams relentlessly. Musically, the song blends Afrobeat rhythms with a touch of hip-hop influence, creating an energetic and uplifting vibe. The choir vocals add a gospel-like feel, amplifying the song's message of hope and resilience. "Level Up" is the perfect way to kick off the album, reminding everyone that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.
2. Alarm Clock
"Alarm Clock" keeps the energy high with its infectious beat and catchy melody. This track is a celebration of success and the good life. Burna Boy sings about enjoying the fruits of his labor and living life to the fullest. While the lyrics are relatively simple, the song's appeal lies in its irresistible rhythm and feel-good vibes. It's the kind of song that makes you want to dance and forget your worries. The production is clean and polished, with a focus on creating a vibrant and energetic soundscape.
3. Way Too Big
"Way Too Big" is a bold and confident statement. In this track, Burna Boy asserts his dominance and reaffirms his status as a global superstar. The lyrics are boastful but also reflect his hard-earned success and unwavering self-belief. The production is heavy and hard-hitting, with a driving beat and aggressive synths. This song is all about attitude and swagger, and Burna Boy delivers it with unmatched charisma.
4. Bebo
"Bebo" is a more mellow and introspective track. Here, Burna Boy reflects on love, relationships, and the complexities of human connection. The lyrics are honest and vulnerable, revealing a more sensitive side of the artist. Musically, the song is characterized by its smooth melodies and laid-back groove. The production is understated but effective, creating a soothing and contemplative atmosphere.
5. Wonderful
"Wonderful" is a celebration of African culture and heritage. Burna Boy pays homage to the beauty and diversity of the African continent, highlighting its rich traditions and vibrant spirit. The lyrics are uplifting and inspiring, promoting unity and pride. Musically, the song incorporates traditional African instruments and rhythms, creating an authentic and celebratory sound. "Wonderful" is a testament to Burna Boy's commitment to representing Africa on the global stage.
6. Onyeka (Baby)
"Onyeka (Baby)" is a romantic and heartfelt track. Burna Boy serenades his love interest with sweet lyrics and smooth vocals. The song is characterized by its catchy melody and infectious beat. The production is light and airy, creating a romantic and dreamy atmosphere. "Onyeka (Baby)" is a feel-good love song that will make you want to dance and sing along.
7. Naughty By Nature
"Naughty By Nature" is a collaboration with the legendary hip-hop group of the same name. This track is a fusion of Afrobeat and hip-hop, blending Burna Boy's signature sound with Naughty By Nature's classic flow. The lyrics are playful and energetic, celebrating the joys of life and the freedom to be yourself. The production is upbeat and infectious, creating a party atmosphere.
8. Comma
"Comma" is a catchy and danceable track with a playful vibe. Burna Boy sings about living in the moment and enjoying life's pleasures. The lyrics are simple but effective, and the song's infectious beat will get you moving. The production is clean and polished, with a focus on creating a fun and energetic soundscape.
9. Monsters You Made (feat. Chris Martin)
This is arguably the most politically charged song on the album. "Monsters You Made" featuring Chris Martin is a powerful indictment of colonialism, systemic racism, and social injustice. Burna Boy confronts the root causes of societal problems, challenging listeners to question the status quo and demand change. The lyrics are raw and unflinching, and the song's message is both urgent and profound. Chris Martin's vocals add a layer of depth and emotion, amplifying the song's impact. This track is a wake-up call, urging us to confront the "monsters" we've created and work towards a more just and equitable world.
10. Time Flies (feat. Sauti Sol)
"Time Flies" featuring Sauti Sol is a mellow and reflective track. Burna Boy and Sauti Sol reflect on the passage of time and the importance of cherishing every moment. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, and the song's harmonies are beautiful and soothing. The production is understated but effective, creating a contemplative and peaceful atmosphere.
11. Bank On It
"Bank On It" is a soulful and introspective track. Burna Boy reflects on his personal struggles and triumphs, reaffirming his faith and determination. The lyrics are honest and vulnerable, revealing a more introspective side of the artist. Musically, the song is characterized by its smooth melodies and heartfelt vocals. The production is simple but effective, creating an intimate and emotional atmosphere.
The Lasting Impact
Twice As Tall wasn't just an album; it was a cultural phenomenon. It won the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album in 2021, cementing Burna Boy's place in music history. More importantly, it opened doors for other African artists to gain international recognition and challenged the dominance of Western music. The album's themes of social justice, African pride, and self-belief resonated with listeners around the world, sparking conversations and inspiring change. Twice As Tall is a timeless masterpiece that will continue to inspire and uplift for years to come. So, if you haven't already, give it a listen and experience the magic for yourself!
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, guys! Burna Boy's Twice As Tall is more than just an album; it's a whole vibe, a statement, and a journey. It's a testament to his artistry and his commitment to representing Africa on the global stage. Have you listened to Twice As Tall? What are your favorite tracks? Let me know in the comments below! Let's keep the conversation going!