Daniel Etiese Benson, popularly known by his stage name BNXN (pronounced “Benson” and formerly Buju), was born on May 14, 1997, in Lagos, Nigeria. A proud native of Akwa Ibom State, BNXN grew up between Lagos and Ogun State, two environments that profoundly shaped his identity and musical style.

BNXN is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and music producer known for his unique fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, dancehall, and soul. His sound blends expressive storytelling with captivating melodies that reflect the vibrancy of Nigerian life, love, and ambition. Singing fluently in English, Pidgin, Yoruba, and sometimes Ibibio, BNXN has built a distinct musical identity that resonates across generations and continents.

Early Life and Background

BNXN’s early years were filled with music and creativity. Growing up in Lagos’ Gbagada area, he was exposed to a mix of street culture, contemporary Nigerian sounds, and international music influences. His parents, though not directly involved in entertainment, supported his passion for art and education.

As a young boy, he experimented with writing and performing, drawing inspiration from legends like 2Baba, Wande Coal, and later, Burna Boy. These influences taught him how to merge traditional Nigerian rhythms with soulful melodies.

In his school days, BNXN briefly went by the nickname Drizzle, performing at talent shows and university events. It wasn’t until later that he adopted the moniker Buju, inspired by Jamaican patois meaning “chubby,” a playful reference to his childhood physique. However, this name would later evolve due to professional necessity.

The Name Change: From Buju to BNXN

In early 2022, Daniel officially changed his stage name from Buju to BNXN, pronounced “Benson,” a stylized form of his surname. The change was more than cosmetic—it represented a rebirth of identity and brand.

The previous name “Buju” had often caused confusion with Jamaican reggae legend Buju Banton, which led BNXN to craft a new, distinct identity that symbolized growth, ownership, and artistic maturity. The name “BNXN” became a representation of his personal story—a Nigerian artist forging his own legacy, blending humility with ambition.

Music Career and Rise to Stardom

BNXN’s musical career officially began around 2018–2019, but his rise to national prominence was swift and organic. His sound—a warm blend of Afro-fusion and R&B—quickly found a receptive audience among Nigerian youth and Afrobeats lovers globally.

Early Breakthrough (2019–2020)

One of BNXN’s first viral hits was “Spiritual”, which gained traction on social media and earned him growing recognition in Nigeria’s vibrant underground scene. The remix featuring Zlatan Ibile expanded his audience and demonstrated his versatility across genres.

His follow-up single, “L’enu”, solidified his presence, especially after the remix with Burna Boy, which introduced him to a global audience.

The momentum caught the attention of Burna Boy’s team, leading to BNXN signing with Spaceship Collective, Burna Boy’s record label, in 2020. This move became a major turning point in his career, placing him among Nigeria’s rising stars.

EP: Sorry I’m Late (2021)

In October 2021, BNXN released his debut EP, Sorry I’m Late, under his imprint To Your Ears Entertainment. The project reflected his growth and artistry, with themes centered on perseverance, self-belief, and gratitude.

The EP featured standout tracks like “Never Stopped” and “Kilometer”, along with collaborations with The Cavemen, blending highlife and modern Afro-fusion. The project received critical acclaim for its maturity and lyrical depth, earning BNXN sold-out concerts in Lagos and London.

Chart Success and International Recognition (2022–2023)

BNXN’s career reached new heights between 2022 and 2023. His collaboration with Pheelz on “Finesse” became a massive hit, dominating both local and international charts. The song trended virally across streaming platforms, becoming a global anthem and boosting both artists’ visibility.

He followed this with “Propeller” featuring Jae5 and Dave, which achieved chart success in the UK, establishing BNXN as a crossover artist capable of blending Afro-fusion with international pop sensibilities.

At The Headies Awards 2022, BNXN won the Next Rated Artist award, a recognition given to the most promising new act in Nigeria. The prize included a brand-new Bentley, which marked both a symbolic and material milestone in his career.

Debut Album: Sincerely, Benson (2023)

In October 2023, BNXN released his debut studio album, Sincerely, Benson. The album reflected emotional vulnerability, artistic confidence, and lyrical storytelling that explored love, fame, and identity.

It featured collaborations with major Nigerian and international stars, cementing his status as one of the key voices in modern Afrobeats. Critics praised the project for its cohesiveness, mature sound production, and the emotional honesty that has become BNXN’s trademark.

Recent Projects and Collaborations (2024–2025)

BNXN’s collaborative strength has been one of his biggest assets. Over the years, he has worked with several top Nigerian artists such as Wizkid (Mood), Ladipoe (Feeling), Timaya, and Ruger.

In 2024, BNXN teamed up with Ruger for a joint EP titled RnB, a project that showcased both artists’ chemistry and versatility. The EP blended smooth Afrobeats melodies with sultry rhythms, and it further strengthened BNXN’s position as one of Afrobeats’ most consistent hitmakers.

As of mid-2025, BNXN has surpassed 900 million Spotify streams, a staggering milestone that reflects his growing global reach and loyal fan base.

Style, Sound, and Artistic Influence

BNXN’s artistry is deeply emotional yet universal. His voice—a balance of softness and strength—carries a rare depth that connects instantly with listeners.

He describes his music as “Afro-fusion,” blending Afrobeats, R&B, and soul. His lyrical themes often revolve around love, ambition, resilience, and gratitude, all expressed in a melodic and conversational tone.

BNXN’s multilingual approach—mixing English, Yoruba, Pidgin, and Ibibio—creates authenticity that resonates with both Nigerian audiences and the global diaspora. His songs often serve as reflections of real-life experiences, giving fans a glimpse into his personal journey.

Net Worth and Financial Success

As of 2025, BNXN’s estimated net worth ranges between $1.5 million and $3 million. This impressive figure stems from multiple income sources that showcase his growing influence and business acumen.

Primary Sources of Income

1. Music Streaming and Royalties
   BNXN’s catalog boasts hundreds of millions of streams across Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, and Boomplay. With over 900 million Spotify streams, he earns substantial revenue through royalties and publishing rights.

2. Live Performances and Tours
   BNXN’s concerts—both local and international—are known for selling out. His performances in Lagos, London, and other major cities contribute significantly to his annual earnings.

3. Brand Endorsements and Sponsorships
   As a trending face in Afrobeats, BNXN is associated with various lifestyle, fashion, and tech brands. His influence among Nigerian youth makes him an attractive ambassador for both local and global companies.

4. Collaborations and Features
   Collaborations with big names such as Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Dave generate additional income and extend his global exposure.

5. Label and Merchandising
   Through his self-owned imprint To Your Ears Entertainment, BNXN retains greater creative and financial control. Merchandise sales and streaming revenues further contribute to his growing fortune.

Lifestyle and Assets

BNXN maintains a relatively private lifestyle. However, he owns luxury vehicles, including the Bentley SUV he received from The Headies 2022 Next Rated prize. He is also rumored to have invested in real estate in Lagos, a popular move among Nigerian artists expanding their financial portfolios.

Challenges and Resilience

BNXN’s journey has not been without obstacles. From the early struggle to break into a competitive music industry to the confusion surrounding his original stage name, he has faced hurdles with resilience.

Balancing fame with artistic integrity remains a challenge, but BNXN continues to evolve by focusing on authenticity and quality output. His ability to stay relevant in a rapidly changing Afrobeats scene proves his adaptability and creative depth.

Legacy and Future Outlook

BNXN represents a new generation of Nigerian musicians redefining Afro-fusion on a global scale. His consistency, lyrical authenticity, and international collaborations have positioned him as one of the most promising voices of modern Afrobeats.

Looking ahead, BNXN aims to expand his brand globally through international tours, high-profile collaborations, and possibly a sophomore album. Fans can expect deeper storytelling, richer production, and more emotional resonance in his upcoming projects.

Conclusion

From his humble beginnings in Lagos to becoming a household name in African music, BNXN (formerly Buju) has proven himself as a powerful force in the world of Afro-fusion. His story is one of persistence, evolution, and faith in creativity.

As of 2025, BNXN stands as a beacon of the Afrobeats revolution—bridging traditional rhythms with global sounds, embodying the dreams of young African artists determined to make their voices heard. His artistry, financial growth, and authenticity make him not just a star, but an evolving legend in the making.