Early Life and Family Background
BNXN hails from Akwa Ibom State but was born and raised in Lagos. He spent his early years in Gbagada before relocating to Mowe in Ogun State. Tragically, he lost his mother to cancer, an event that profoundly impacted his life and fueled his passion for music.
Education
BNXN attended Emerald Ridge High School for his secondary education. He later pursued a degree in Theatre Arts at Babcock University, where he further honed his artistic skills and deepened his understanding of performance arts.
Music Career Trajectory
BNXN’s musical journey began in secondary school, where he initially adopted the moniker “Drizzle” and showcased his talents through rapping and participation in the church choir. His early influences include Nigerian artist 2Baba and Jamaican musician Buju Banton. In 2018, he released his debut single, “Catch a Vibe,” followed by “A Day in Lagos,” which gained traction on SoundCloud and Twitter. A significant breakthrough came with the release of “Spiritual,” a collaboration with Zlatan, which garnered widespread acclaim.
In 2020, BNXN’s career reached new heights when he signed with Burna Boy’s Spaceship Records and released the remix of “L’enu” featuring Burna Boy. The following year, he unveiled his extended play project, Sorry I’m Late, under the management of T.Y.E/EMPIRE. The EP featured collaborations with The Cavemen and showcased production from talents like Steph, Perlz, Denzl, Timi Jay, and Rexxie. Critics praised the project for its confidence and authenticity.
In 2022, BNXN officially rebranded from Buju to BNXN to distinguish himself from other artists and solidify his unique identity. That year, he collaborated with Pheelz on the track “Finesse,” which reached number 52 on the UK’s Official Singles Chart. He also featured on Jae5’s “Propeller” alongside British rapper Dave, marking his first Top 40 single in the UK at number 38. On September 4, 2022, BNXN won The Headies’ Next Rated award, which came with a 2022 Bentley Bentayga. He dedicated the award to his late mother and fellow nominees.
In October 2023, BNXN released his debut album, Sincerely, Benson, a fifteen-track project featuring artists like Headie One and Popcaan. The following year, he surprised fans by collaborating with Ruger on a joint album titled RnB, which featured seven tracks and marked a reconciliation between the two artists.
Major Influences
BNXN’s musical style has been shaped by a diverse range of artists, including Burna Boy, Damian Marley, Buju Banton, J Hus, and 2Baba. These influences have contributed to his unique Afro-fusion sound, blending elements of Afrobeat, reggae, and contemporary R&B.
Significant Contributions
BNXN has made notable contributions to the Nigerian music industry through his innovative sound and collaborations. His work has played a role in popularizing Afro-fusion music both locally and internationally. Notably, his collaboration with Ladipoe on “Feeling” won Best Rap Single at The Headies in 2022.
Challenges and Resilience
Throughout his career, BNXN has faced challenges, including the need to rebrand due to name similarities with other artists. His decision to change his stage name from Buju to BNXN reflects his commitment to establishing a unique identity in the music industry.
Personal Life
BNXN maintains a relatively private personal life. He has not publicly disclosed details about his relationships or family matters, choosing to focus public attention on his musical endeavors.
Legacy
BNXN’s legacy is characterized by his contributions to the evolution of Afro-fusion music and his influence on emerging artists in Nigeria. His dedication to his craft and ability to blend various musical styles have positioned him as a significant figure in the contemporary music scene.
Conclusion
BNXN’s journey from a young boy in Lagos to an acclaimed Afro-fusion artist exemplifies his passion, resilience, and innovation. As he continues to evolve and collaborate with artists worldwide, his impact on the music industry remains profound, inspiring a new generation of musicians.
