Nigerian singer Burna Boy has revealed that he recently rejected a $5 million performance offer in Dubai because smoking is banned in the emirate.
The singer said he turned down the offer because he would not be allowed to smoke while in Dubai. The Emirati government has banned smoking in public parks, beaches, and all other public entertainment areas in Dubai.
“We turned down Dubai money, $5 million is small change, because I don’t like going to places where people can’t smoke igbo,” Burna Boy said during a rehearsal with his band, Outsiders, in a video that is circulating on social media.
Burna Boy is a known cannabis smoker, and he has often spoken about his love of the drug in his music. He is also a vocal advocate for the legalization of cannabis in Nigeria.
The singer’s decision to reject the Dubai performance offer has been met with mixed reactions. Some people have praised him for standing up for his beliefs, while others have criticized him for turning down a lucrative opportunity.
Regardless of the reaction, Burna Boy’s decision is a clear indication of his commitment to his lifestyle and his beliefs.
However:
- Burna Boy is not the first artist to turn down a performance offer in Dubai because of the smoking ban. In 2017, American rapper Snoop Dogg also rejected an offer to perform in the emirate.
- The smoking ban in Dubai is part of a broader effort by the government to improve the city’s image as a family-friendly destination.
- Burna Boy is one of the most popular and successful musicians in Africa. He has won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album.
