A resurfaced video circulating on social media shows Nigerian superstar, Burna Boy refunding a concertgoer’s ticket money, before asking them to leave the show. This is a moment that has sparked renewed debate over his on-stage temper and audience expectations.
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According to multiple reports, the clip dates back to a 2019 concert in Atlanta, during his African Giant tour. In the footage, Burna Boy pauses his performance, approaches a front row fan , and issues a refund from his pocket. He tells security to escort the person out because of what he describes as “bad energy.”
This moment is now revisited in the context of a more recent and high-profile concert controversy surrounding the artist’s confrontational performance style.
On November 12, 2025, Burna Boy made headlines during a sold-out performance at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver, Colorado. During the show, he abruptly stopped his set after noticing a couple in the front row, the woman appeared to be sleeping.
Video footage captured Burna Boy calling out the couple, addressing the man directly.
“When i stand up here and see you with your girl sleeping……..that’s where ya’ll **** off. Please take her home!” He then made it clear that he would not resume perfoming until they were removed. “First take her home…I’m not doing no more songs until you take her home. Real life.”
The incident stirred strong reactions online with some fans criticizing him harshly, arguing that he publicly shamed a paying attendee who may have had private reasons for being tired during the show.
The woman who was ejected later identified herself as Chaltu Jateny, saying she had been “mentally, physically, and emotionally drained” after the recent death of her child’s father.
According to her, she attended the concert seeking emotional relief, but fatigue overtook her. She described the public confrontation as “embarrassing and humiliating.”
Following the uproar, Burna Boy addressed the controversy in a livestream. He doubled down on his actions saying;
“Did I tell you all to be my fans? I am only looking for fans who have money this period.” He framed his remark as part of a broader message, asserting his performance and audience expect more than just passive listeners.
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Whether seen as an artist demanding value or as someone quick to publicly shame, Burna Boy’s on-stage outbursts spark an important debate; What should the relationship between performer and the audience look like?
