P2J: The Grammy-Nominated Producer Behind Burna Boy's "Update" & Global Hits

P2J, the Grammy-nominated producer behind Burna Boy's 'Update' & global hits. Explore his career, collaborations, and impact on modern music.

Pauline Afande
March 12, 2025
Burna Boy's latest release, "Update," is a vibrant track that adds fresh energy to his discography. Produced by the talented P2J, the song blends the sounds of Afrobeats with contemporary elements, creating an irresistible anthem for the dancefloor. The track samples the classic "Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)" by Soul II Soul, but P2J has infused it with amapiano, adding a modern twist to the nostalgic melody. The result is a song that pays homage to its musical roots and pushes the boundaries of Afrobeats, making it a standout in Burna Boy's ever-growing catalog.
With this project, P2J continues to show why he’s one of the most sought-after producers in the music industry today. His impressive list of collaborators includes some of the biggest names in the business, such as Beyoncé, Wizkid, Stormzy, Doja Cat, and FKA twigs. His work on "Update" proves his ability to seamlessly merge different musical styles, allowing Burna Boy’s infectious energy and charismatic delivery to shine through.
Born Richard Olowaranti Mbu Isong, P2J is a Nigerian-British producer and songwriter whose work spans genres like Afrobeats, pop, R&B, and electronic music. He is based in London but has made a name for himself internationally with his innovative and genre-defying productions. Whether it’s creating chart-topping hits or working with global superstars, P2J’s influence on the music scene cannot be overstated. His production on Beyoncé’s Renaissance album, which earned a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year, is attestation to his incredible creativity and artistic vision.
The producer's catalog is filled with globally recognized songs, each demonstrating his exceptional production abilities. "Brown Skin Girl," a standout track from Beyoncé’s The Lion King: The Gift, is one of his most celebrated works. The song features Beyoncé, her daughter Blue Ivy Carter, Wizkid, and SAINt JHN, and it became a global anthem for self-love and empowerment.
Another defining moment in P2J’s career came with "Essence," the international hit by Wizkid featuring Tems. The song became a cultural sensation, combining Afroswing and R&B in a way that was both fresh and authentic. It earned critical acclaim, winning numerous awards, and further cemented P2J’s role in the global music scene.
P2J’s work on "My Power," also from The Lion King: The Gift, is another example of his production brilliance. Featuring a star-studded lineup of artists like Tierra Whack, Moonchild Sanelly, and DJ Lag, the track is an energetic anthem of empowerment, celebrating African identity and strength. The fusion of gqom, a genre rooted in South Africa, with elements of house music and powerful vocals, made it a standout track from the album.
Additionally, his involvement in Beyoncé’s Renaissance album shines through in "Move," a song that combines Afrobeats, pop, and electronic elements to create a track that is both dynamic and empowering. Featuring Grace Jones and Tems, "Move" highlights P2J’s skill in working with diverse artists and genres to create something truly unique.
P2J also contributed to KSI’s track "Pull Up," a high-energy song featuring Jme. Known for its drill-inspired beat and witty verses, the track showcases P2J’s ability to create sounds that are fresh and engaging. His production enhances the energy of the song, adding to its appeal and ensuring it resonates with listeners in the UK and beyond.
Beyond his hit tracks, P2J’s catalog represents a valuable asset in the growing music investment industry. As more and more artists and producers look to monetize their work, P2J’s catalog is sure to attract attention from investors looking to capitalize on his impressive body of work. His ability to produce global hits and his ever-expanding list of collaborators ensure that his music will remain relevant and profitable for years to come.
Platforms like Royalty Exchange offer the perfect marketplace for producers like P2J to leverage their catalog and continue building on their success. P2J’s contributions to the music world have undeniably shaped the sound of modern pop, Afrobeats, and R&B. He has firmly established himself as one of the most influential producers in music today. As he continues to work with top-tier artists and create tracks that resonate worldwide, his legacy as a master of production will continue to grow.

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