Burna Boy's Twice As Tall: Full Album 2020 Review

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into Burna Boy's critically acclaimed album, "Twice As Tall," released in 2020. This wasn't just an album; it was a cultural reset, a statement, and a testament to Burna Boy's growth as an artist. "Twice As Tall" arrived after the monumental success of "African Giant," carrying immense expectations. Did it deliver? Absolutely! It not only met expectations but soared beyond them, earning Burna Boy his first Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album. This album showcased a blend of Afrobeat rhythms, global sounds, and introspective lyrics, solidifying Burna Boy's place on the international music stage. The journey of "Twice As Tall" is fascinating, from its conception to its impact. It's an album that speaks volumes about identity, resilience, and the power of music to transcend boundaries. Whether you're a die-hard Burna Boy fan or new to his music, understanding the nuances of "Twice As Tall" is essential for appreciating contemporary African music. So, grab your headphones, and let's get started!

The Genesis of Twice As Tall

Let’s explore the origins and making of "Twice As Tall." Following the success of "African Giant," Burna Boy faced the challenge of surpassing his previous work. He needed to evolve, experiment, and deliver something even more impactful. The creation of "Twice As Tall" was a deliberate and meticulous process. Burna Boy collaborated with a diverse range of artists and producers, bringing together different musical perspectives. One of the most notable collaborations was with Sean Combs, also known as Diddy, who served as an executive producer on the album. Diddy's involvement brought a unique dimension to the project, blending his experience in the American music industry with Burna Boy's Afrobeat sound. The recording sessions took place in various locations, including Lagos, Nigeria, and the United States, allowing Burna Boy to tap into different creative environments. This fusion of cultures and sounds is evident throughout the album, creating a rich and diverse listening experience. Burna Boy has spoken about the personal growth and self-discovery that went into making "Twice As Tall." It was a journey of understanding his place in the world and using his music as a tool for empowerment and representation. The album's title itself reflects this sentiment – a declaration of strength, resilience, and reaching new heights. In interviews, Burna Boy highlighted that the album reflects his mindset of challenging limitations and exceeding expectations, both personally and professionally. The album became a beacon of hope and inspiration, resonating with listeners around the globe. The collaborative spirit and meticulous production made “Twice As Tall” a standout album, cementing Burna Boy’s legacy.

Track-by-Track Analysis

Alright, guys, let's break down each track on "Twice As Tall" and explore what makes them so special. The album opens with "Level Up (Twice As Tall)," a powerful anthem that sets the tone for the entire record. The song speaks about overcoming obstacles and rising above challenges, with Burna Boy reflecting on his journey and aspirations. The lyrics are motivational, and the beat is infectious, making it an instant favorite. Next up is "Alarm Clock," featuring Youssou N'Dour. This track blends Afrobeat with Senegalese influences, creating a unique and vibrant sound. Youssou N'Dour's vocals add a layer of depth and authenticity, making it a standout collaboration. "Way Too Big" is another highlight, with its catchy melody and confident delivery. Burna Boy asserts his dominance in the music scene, declaring that he's "way too big" to be ignored. The song is bold, brash, and undeniably infectious. "Bebo" is a more laid-back track, showcasing Burna Boy's versatility. The song has a smooth, mellow vibe, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the music. "Wonderful" is an upbeat and celebratory track, celebrating the beauty and richness of Africa. The song is a tribute to African culture and heritage, with vibrant rhythms and catchy hooks. "Onyeka (Baby)" is a romantic ballad, showcasing Burna Boy's softer side. The song is sweet, heartfelt, and showcases his ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. "Naughty By Nature" featuring Naughty By Nature is a high-energy collaboration that blends Afrobeat with hip-hop. The song is fun, playful, and showcases Burna Boy's ability to seamlessly blend genres. "Comma" is a groovy track with a catchy chorus that stays in your head long after the song is over. The song is upbeat and energetic, perfect for dancing and having a good time. "My Oasis" featuring Chris Martin is a standout collaboration, blending Burna Boy's Afrobeat sound with Coldplay's signature style. The song is ethereal, dreamy, and showcases the power of collaboration. "Time Flies" featuring Sauti Sol is a soulful track that reflects on the passage of time and the importance of cherishing every moment. The song is introspective and thought-provoking, with beautiful harmonies and heartfelt lyrics. "Monsters You Made" featuring Chris Martin takes a more serious tone, addressing issues of social injustice and inequality. The song is powerful, poignant, and serves as a call to action. "Wettin Dey Sup" featuring Stormzy is a hard-hitting track that tackles issues of violence and corruption. The song is raw, gritty, and showcases Burna Boy's willingness to address difficult topics. The album closes with "Real Life" featuring Stormzy, a reflective track that explores the realities of life and the importance of staying true to oneself. The song is honest, vulnerable, and serves as a fitting conclusion to the album. Each track on "Twice As Tall" contributes to the album's overall message of resilience, empowerment, and cultural pride.

Key Themes and Messages

Now, let’s get into the themes and messages "Twice As Tall" conveys. One of the most prominent themes is resilience. Burna Boy uses his personal experiences and struggles to inspire listeners to overcome their own challenges. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, determination, and never giving up on your dreams. The album also carries a strong message of empowerment. Burna Boy encourages listeners to embrace their identity, celebrate their heritage, and stand up for what they believe in. He highlights the power of music to unite people, inspire change, and amplify voices that are often marginalized. Cultural pride is another central theme. Burna Boy showcases the richness and diversity of African culture through his music, incorporating traditional rhythms, melodies, and languages. He aims to promote a positive image of Africa and challenge stereotypes. Social justice is also a recurring theme in "Twice As Tall." Burna Boy addresses issues such as inequality, corruption, and violence, using his platform to raise awareness and advocate for change. He believes in using his music as a tool for activism and inspiring a better world. Personal growth and self-discovery are also explored in the album. Burna Boy reflects on his journey as an artist and individual, sharing his experiences, lessons, and insights. He encourages listeners to embrace self-reflection, learn from their mistakes, and strive to become the best versions of themselves. Overall, "Twice As Tall" is an album with depth, substance, and a powerful message. It's not just about entertainment; it's about inspiring change, promoting cultural pride, and empowering listeners to reach their full potential.

The Album's Impact and Reception

Discuss the impact and reception of "Twice As Tall". Upon its release, the album received widespread critical acclaim from music critics around the world. Many praised Burna Boy's artistic growth, the album's diverse sound, and its powerful message. The album's positive reviews helped to solidify Burna Boy's reputation as one of the leading voices in contemporary African music. Commercially, "Twice As Tall" was a huge success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The album's popularity helped to introduce Burna Boy's music to a wider audience and expand his fan base globally. One of the most significant achievements of "Twice As Tall" was winning the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album in 2021. This was a historic moment for Burna Boy and for African music as a whole. The Grammy win not only validated Burna Boy's talent and hard work but also helped to elevate African music on the international stage. The album's impact extended beyond the music industry. "Twice As Tall" became a symbol of hope, resilience, and cultural pride for many Africans around the world. The album's themes of empowerment and social justice resonated with listeners from all walks of life, inspiring them to stand up for their beliefs and fight for a better future. In addition, "Twice As Tall" has had a lasting impact on the Afrobeats genre. The album's success has helped to pave the way for other African artists to gain international recognition and break into the mainstream music market. Burna Boy's innovative sound and unique style have influenced a new generation of musicians, helping to shape the future of Afrobeats. In conclusion, "Twice As Tall" is not just an album; it's a cultural phenomenon that has had a profound impact on the music industry and beyond. Its critical acclaim, commercial success, and Grammy win have solidified Burna Boy's place as one of the most important and influential artists of our time.

Legacy and Future Prospects

Finally, guys, let's look at the legacy of "Twice As Tall" and what the future holds for Burna Boy. "Twice As Tall" has undoubtedly cemented Burna Boy's status as a global music icon. The album's success has opened doors for numerous African artists, proving that African music can compete on a global scale. Burna Boy's unique blend of Afrobeat, dancehall, and hip-hop has created a distinctive sound that is both authentic and accessible. This has allowed him to appeal to a wide range of audiences, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. The album's themes of resilience, empowerment, and cultural pride have resonated with listeners around the world, making it a timeless and enduring work of art. Looking ahead, Burna Boy has a bright future ahead of him. He is constantly evolving as an artist, experimenting with new sounds and pushing creative boundaries. His dedication to his craft, combined with his unwavering commitment to his roots, ensures that he will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Burna Boy's influence extends beyond music. He has become a role model for young Africans, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and believe in themselves. His success story is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and unwavering self-belief. Moreover, Burna Boy's continued success will pave the way for more collaborations between African and international artists, fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting diversity in the music industry. "Twice As Tall" is not just an album; it's a movement that has changed the landscape of global music. Its legacy will continue to inspire and influence artists and listeners for years to come, solidifying Burna Boy's place as a true legend.

In conclusion, Burna Boy's "Twice As Tall" is more than just an album; it's a cultural milestone that showcases his growth as an artist and his dedication to representing Africa on a global stage. From its meticulous creation to its powerful themes and widespread acclaim, "Twice As Tall" has left an indelible mark on the music industry and beyond. Its legacy of resilience, empowerment, and cultural pride will continue to inspire future generations. So, next time you listen to "Twice As Tall," remember that you're experiencing a piece of history. Keep grooving, guys!