David Adedeji Adeleke (born November 21, 1992), professionally known as Davido, is a Nigerian-American singer, songwriter, and record producer. He is one of Africa’s most influential artists and a key figure in the global Afrobeats movement.
Davido gained widespread recognition with his 2011 hit single “Dami Duro”, which established him as a major force in the Nigerian music industry. Over the years, he has released multiple chart-topping albums and hit singles, collaborated with international stars, and won numerous awards. He is the founder of Davido Music Worldwide (DMW) and a Sony Music/RCA Records signee.
Early Life and Background
Davido was born on November 21, 1992, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, to a wealthy Nigerian family. His father, Adedeji Adeleke, is a billionaire businessman, and his mother, Veronica Adeleke, was a university lecturer.
He grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, and attended Oakwood University in Alabama, USA, before dropping out to pursue music. He later earned a degree in Music and Performing Arts from Babcock University in Nigeria.
Music Career
Breakthrough with “Dami Duro” (2011) and “Omo Baba Olowo” (2012)
Davido burst onto the Nigerian music scene with “Dami Duro” in 2011, a song that became an instant hit. His debut album, “Omo Baba Olowo” (OBO) (2012), featured popular songs like “Ekuro,” “All of You,” and “Gbon Gbon”.
Hit Singles and Global Success (2013–2016)
Between 2013 and 2016, Davido released several successful singles, including:
- “Gobe” (2013)
- “Aye” (2014)
- “Skelewu” (2014)
- “Fans Mi” feat. Meek Mill (2015)
His music style evolved, blending Afrobeats, Afropop, and international sounds.
Sony Deal, “If” & “Fall” (2016–2017)
In 2016, Davido signed a multi-million dollar deal with Sony Music/RCA Records. After initial struggles with label control, he returned in 2017 with back-to-back global hits:
- “If” (2017) – Certified Gold in the USA & UK
- “Fall” (2017) – One of the most-streamed Afrobeats songs worldwide
Albums and Chart-Topping Hits (2019–Present)
Discography – Albums & EPs
- Omo Baba Olowo (OBO) – 2012
- Son of Mercy (EP) – 2016
- A Good Time – 2019
- A Better Time – 2020
- Timeless – 2023
Recent Hit Songs
- “Blow My Mind” (feat. Chris Brown) – 2019
- “FEM” – 2020
- “Holy Ground” (feat. Nicki Minaj) – 2020
- “Champion Sound” (feat. Focalistic) – 2021
- “Unavailable” (feat. Musa Keys) – 2023
DMW Record Label & Artist Development
In 2016, Davido launched Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), which has signed artists such as:
- Mayorkun
- Peruzzi
- Dremo
- Liya
Awards & Achievements
Davido has won over 30 awards, including:
- BET Awards – Best International Act (2018)
- MTV Europe Music Awards
- Headies Awards
- Billboard & AFRIMA recognitions
Influence & Legacy
Davido is a key figure in Afrobeats’ global expansion, collaborating with stars like Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, Lil Baby, Meek Mill, and Focalistic. His impact on African music, digital streaming, and youth empowerment is profound.
External Links
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