Why "If I'm Lying" Is Burna Boy’s Favourite Song Off ‘I Told Them’ Album

[Burna Boy/Music in Africa]

Burna Boy has always been a master storyteller, seamlessly blending his unique Afro-fusion sound with lyrics that reflect the depths of his experiences. In this seventh studio album, ‘I Told Them’ released in August 2023, one track stands out as a testament to his lyrical prowess and musical creativity: ""If I'm Lying."" 

Burna Boy himself has declared it his favorite track on the album, and after diving into its captivating verses and mesmerizing chorus, it's easy to see why.

""If I'm Lying"" is a powerful composition that explores themes of self-doubt, uncertainty, and the struggle to find truth and authenticity in a world filled with deception. The song's lyrics immediately draw you in with their emotional depth, and Burna Boy's distinctive voice lends an air of authenticity to the narrative.

The chorus, with its haunting repetition, sets the tone for the entire track. The lines ""And if I'm lyin', let the ocean and seas start dryin' / Let the birds in the sky stop flyin' / All the trees in the world start dyin', all start dyin'"" serve as a powerful plea for truth and sincerity. Burna Boy's passionate delivery makes these words resonate deep within your soul, and you can't help but feel the weight of his honesty.

The third verse, in particular, is a lyrical masterpiece. Burna Boy opens with the word ""Zero,"" a stark declaration of emptiness and despair. He goes on to describe the rain falling on his window, creating a vivid image of isolation and longing. The line ""That's why I sleep under my pillow"" encapsulates the desire to escape from the world's troubles, a sentiment that many listeners can relate to. The woeful ""Woah, woah, woah"" serves as an emotional release, showcasing Burna Boy's ability to convey raw emotions through his music.

These days, Burna Boy reveals that he doesn't sleep anymore, and his eyes are wide open. This sense of vigilance and awareness in a world filled with deceit is a recurring theme in the song. It reflects the struggle to maintain authenticity and stay true to oneself amidst the chaos of modern life.

The chorus reprises with even more intensity, emphasizing Burna Boy's longing for truth and his willingness to face the consequences if he's found lying. The song's arrangement, with its soulful instrumentation and a choir-like background vocal arrangement, adds depth and power to the chorus, making it an unforgettable musical moment.

"Let the ocean and seas start dryin' / Let the birds in the sky stop flyin' / All the trees in the world start dyin', all start dyin'" - these lines serve as a stark reminder of the gravity of Burna Boy's words. He is ready to bear the weight of the world's destruction if his words are proven false, a bold declaration that showcases his unwavering commitment to truth and honesty.

Burna Boy's "If I'm Lying" is a masterpiece of lyrical storytelling and musical composition. It is a song that demands introspection and resonates deeply with anyone who has ever questioned the authenticity of their own words and actions. In the context of 'I Told Them,' it stands as a highlight, showcasing his growth as an artist and his ability to touch the hearts and minds of his listeners.

In a music landscape often dominated by superficiality, "If I'm Lying" is a breath of fresh air, a reminder that music can be a powerful vehicle for conveying genuine emotion and thought-provoking ideas.