Bnxn, formerly recognized as Buju and born Daniel Etiese Benson on May 14, 1997, is a Nigerian artist specializing in Afro-fusion music. He is renowned as a singer, songwriter, and record producer.
Early life and Education
Daniel Etiese Benson, born in Lagos and originally from Akwa Ibom state, spent his formative years in Gbagada with his family before later relocating to Ogun State. Introduced to Afropop during his childhood, he cites artists like 2Baba as early influences and credits Burna Boy for inspiring his pursuit of a musical career.
Career
Bnxn dropped his extended play project “Sorry I’m Late” on October 27, 2021, under T.Y.E/EMPIRE management. The EP included collaborations with The Cavemen and production by Steph, Perlz, Denzl, Timi Jay, and Rexxie, with mixing and mastering by Vtek and Poppil. Motolani Alake of Pulse Nigeria praised its confident and comfortable vibe. Bnxn kicked off his Sorry I’m Late tour with his first London show on November 30.
On December 22, 2021, Bnxn headlined his inaugural sold-out concert, also his debut in Lagos, at the Balmoral Convection Centre. In 2022, he changed his name to BNXN to distinguish himself from Buju Banton and enhance his brand uniqueness. He collaborated with Pheelz on “Finesse” in March 2022, which reached number 52 on the UK’s Official Singles Chart.
In July 2022, he featured on Jae5’s “Propeller” alongside Dave, marking his first Top 40 single in the UK, reaching number 38. Bnxn clinched The Headies 2022 Next Rated award on September 4, 2022, held at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
In October 2023, Bnxn released his debut album, “Sincerely Benson,” featuring appearances by Headie One and Popcaan, among others.
Personal life
Benson made the decision to change his name to Buju to Bnxn after discovering the existence of the renowned Jamaican Grammy award-winning singer, Buju Banton. In a Twitter post, Benson highlighted the confusion and mistaken identity, prompting the name change to BNXN, pronounced similarly to his first name, Benson.
Accolades and Nominations
Benson has won multiple awards and has been recognised and nominated on many occasions. As it were, these are some of his awards and nominations since he rose to the limelight, including:
He won the City People Entertainment Awards for the best revelation of the year, 2019.
The Best Global Music Album Award at the Grammy Awards for “Made in Lagos: Deluxe Edition” by Wizkid, 2022
Nominated for the “Rookie of the Year” category at The Headies 2019
African Fan Favourite Awards at AFRIMMA for (Outside, 2021)
Net Worth
Over 300,000 dollars