Bose Ogulu, the mother and manager of Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Burna Boy, has been nominated for Manager of the Year at the prestigious 2025 Music Week Awards. The announcement, made on Wednesday, places Ogulu among a select group of global music industry leaders vying for the coveted award.
The Music Week Awards, which celebrate excellence across various facets of the music industry, including labels, A&R, live events, and management, will hold its ceremony on May 8 at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London, United Kingdom. Ogulu will compete against other top managers, including Alistair Goldsmith, Neil Hughes, and Wes Banton, for the Manager of the Year title.
A Legacy of Excellence
This nomination adds to Ogulu’s growing list of accolades in the music industry. In 2022, she won the Manager of the Year award at the Artist & Manager Awards in London, solidifying her reputation as one of the most influential figures in global music management. Her role in shaping Burna Boy’s career has been widely acclaimed, with many crediting her strategic vision and leadership for his rise to international stardom.
Ogulu, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages and a Master of Arts in Translation from the University of Port Harcourt, comes from a family deeply rooted in arts and culture. She is the daughter of renowned Nigerian music critic Benson Idonije, who managed the legendary Fela Kuti. Ogulu herself was once a background dancer for Fela, further cementing her connection to Nigeria’s rich musical heritage.
A Multifaceted Career
Before venturing into music management, Ogulu built a successful career as a translator for the Federation of West African Chambers of Commerce. Fluent in English, French, German, Italian, and Yoruba, she has leveraged her linguistic skills and cultural expertise to navigate the global music industry effectively.
As Burna Boy’s manager, Ogulu has played a pivotal role in securing major deals and expanding his international reach. Her efforts have not only elevated her son’s career but have also contributed to the global rise of Afrobeats. In addition to managing Burna Boy, Ogulu co-founded Spaceship Collective, a platform dedicated to supporting African artists and promoting Afrobeats on the global stage.
A Celebration of Music Industry Leaders
The Music Week Awards recognize the contributions of individuals and organizations that drive innovation and excellence in the music industry. Winners are selected through a combination of peer voting and evaluations by an independent panel of judges, ensuring that the awards reflect the highest standards of achievement.
Ogulu’s nomination highlights the growing influence of African music and the critical role of managers in shaping the careers of artists. Her success story serves as an inspiration to aspiring managers and artists across the continent, demonstrating the power of strategic vision, hard work, and cultural pride.
What’s Next for Bose Ogulu?
As the music world eagerly awaits the outcome of the 2025 Music Week Awards, Bose Ogulu continues to make waves in the industry. Her nomination is a testament to her dedication and impact, not only as Burna Boy’s manager but also as a champion of African music on the global stage.
Whether she takes home the award or not, Ogulu’s legacy as a trailblazer in music management is already firmly established. Her work with Burna Boy and Spaceship Collective has paved the way for future generations of African artists and managers, ensuring that the continent’s rich musical heritage continues to shine on the world stage.
Bose Ogulu’s nomination for Manager of the Year at the Music Week Awards is a celebration of her remarkable contributions to the music industry. As a manager, translator, and cultural ambassador, she has broken barriers and set new standards for excellence. Her story is a reminder of the power of passion, perseverance, and the enduring influence of African music. The world will be watching as the awards ceremony unfolds, but one thing is certain: Bose Ogulu’s impact on the global music scene is undeniable.
