David Adedeji Adeleke also known as Davido is a singer, songwriter, and record producer. He has grown to become one of Africa’s finest musicians with his afrobeat tunes, alluring audiences of all class. From being just a promising star when he started in 2011, Davido’s status is now one to reckon with in the global music world.
The Omo Baba Olowo Crooner, has not failed to build his reputation even outside the music sphere. His commitment to social causes is second to none. He is a philanthropist, who is determined to contribute his quota to nation building and youth transformation.
In this blog post, we will explore Davido’s multifaceted life, from his humble beginning to his rise to stardom.
Davido made his debut in the early 2010s when he released his hit single, ‘Back When’, featuring Nigerian rapper Naeto C. Since then, he has released hits back to back, making a name for himself. He is known to craft irresistible beats with rhymes that stick to memory. He has a magnetic stage presence, he is a good dancer, and professional at his craft. Little wonder he connects with audiences worldwide.
On his official website, iamdavido.com, the music artiste cum entrepreneur, highlighted 2019 as a powerful year for him. It saw him play his first sold-out date at London’s O2 Arena. This same year, he dropped his hit single, Fall. The song launched him, running as the longest Afrobeats single on the Billboard charts and one of the most searched songs in the States.
Luckily for Davido, he had his footprints in the Nigeria and Africa music scene within a short space of time. In 2016, he signed a record deal with Sony Music and that same year founded Davido Music Worldwide (DMW). From it, he groomed several acts like Yonda, Dremo, Mayorkun, Peruzzi, and Logos Olori.
Recently, the American-born music executive moved to partner with UnitedMasters to launch his new record label, Nine + Records. This has steered numerous reactions from his fans as Davido continues to leave no stone unturned in the global music landscape.
His music is a unique blend of Afrobeat, R&B, and hip-hop. This has earned him widespread recognition and captivating audiences worldwide.
Davido songs usually reflect themes of love and romance to social issues and personal achievements. His journey from a budding artist to an international celebrity serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians everywhere. New acts in the industry can learn his relentless dedication, coupled with his genuine passion for connecting with fans. All of these have earned Davido a devoted following worldwide.
As he continues to do what he knows best, there’s no doubt that Davido will remain an icon in the music industry for years to come.
Beyond The Music Scene
Aside from his musical talents, Davido’s charisma has established his position as a pacesetter in the global music industry. His influence transcends music, as he has made significant contributions to
philanthropic causes and social initiatives. Through his charitable efforts, he empowers youth, provides education opportunities, and aids the less privileged across Africa.
His achievements in the music industry are a mix of determination, exceptional talent, hard work, and entrepreneurial spirit. His interest in music flourished during his teenage years, as he became more exposed to the industry. Despite his family’s wealth, Davido was determined to make a name for himself through his own talents and hard work. He carved out his own path in the music industry. He dropped out while studying Business Administration at Oakwood University in Alabama, to pursue a full-time music career.
However, his upbringing and family background have played a significant role in shaping his identity as an artist. He resonates with themes of wealth, success, and ambition, often reflected in his music. He maintains a flamboyant and luxurious lifestyle. Even with his courage to push through, Davido’s journey has been well influenced by his close-knit family ties and the unwavering support of his father.
Biography
Davido, the youngest of five siblings was born on November 21, 1992, to Nigerian billionaire businessman, Adedeji, and his wife, Vero Adeleke. Though he was born in Atlanta, Georgia, United States, he lived much of his early childhood in Lagos, Nigeria.
He completed his primary and secondary school education in Nigeria, where he attended the British International School, Victoria Island, Lagos. Davido had quite a lot of exposure, shuffling between the US, the UK, and Nigeria for holidays and the like.
Unknowingly or not, Davido has been honing his music skills since he was 11, making and producing music for a record label called HKN Music. The record label was jointly owned by him and Ade, his older brother. He returned to the U.S. at 16 to study at Oakwood University, Huntsville, Alabama.
Unfortunately, he dropped out of school as he was unable to resist his passion for music. He opted to pursue a full-time music career instead of studyingBusiness Administration.
Davido had it hot with his dad who must have envisaged his son, towing the family business line. According to the Afrobeat sensation, his father at one point detained him, in a bid to discourage his music pursuit. They both contended over the issue before reaching an agreement. Davido eventually enrolled in Babcock University in Ogun State and successfully completed his studies in 2015, with a degree in Music.
Ironically, Davido’s father owned a record label and was involved in the Nigerian music industry. This exposed Davido to music at his early age as he took to establish a career in the entertainment industry. Years after, Davido and his father will be proud of his decision, as his career has only risen, though with brief controversies here and there.
Timeless Music Career
In 2011, Davido burst into the Nigerian music scene with his debut single “Back When,” featuring Nigerian rapper Naeto C. The song quickly gained ground and marked Davido as a promising new talent in the Afrobeat genre. Following this success, he released hit singles like “Dami Duro,” further gaining ground as a rising star.
Thereafter, he later released His debut album, “Omo Baba Olowo,” in 2012. The album was a commercial success, showcasing his competency in the Nigerian music industry. Since then, he has released multiple albums, including A Good Time in 2019, A Better Time in 2020, and Timeless in 2023. These hits received widespread recognition and dominated music charts across Africa and internationally.
Throughout his career, Davido has continuously updated his music style and delivery. His music creates a unique sound of beat, rhymes, and attention to many. His musical sense paved his way and earned him his position in the African music industry.
Down the line, Davido has collaborated with renowned artists and performed on international stages. His contributions to African music have earned him numerous awards and accolades. He has multiple MTV Africa Music Awards, BET Awards, and MOBO Awards. Recently, the Afrobeat master celebrated 3 nominations at the Grammy, including Best Global Music Album.
Multiple Awards
Davido’s long list of awards, over 30 will make up another article. He has amassed prestigious awards including the MTV Europe Music Awards. His singles remain top charts, while his albums create a new evolution. Davido’s impact on the music industry is both glaring and undeniable.
He won the Best Newcomer Award, Kora Award, 2012; Best International Act: Africa, BET Awards, 2014; Best Music of the Year, Ben TV Awards, 2014; Best Male West African, African Muzik Magazine Awards, 2014; Artist of the Year, African Muzik Magazine Awards, 2014; Best Male Artiste of the Year, MTV Africa Music Awards, 2014 and Artiste of the year, MTV Africa Music Awards, 2014. He has a total of 8 Headies Awards.
Davido is capable of winning a Grammy any time soon as he got three nominations at the last Grammy Awards. The categories for which his nominations came up are Best Global Music Performance, Best Global Music Album, and Best African Music Performance.
Personal Life
Apparently, Davido’s success attracts him to the opposite gender as he is a father to multiple children. According to Wikipedia, He has six children, three boys (lost one in 2022) and three girls. Amongst all his baby mamas, he publicly confirmed his marriage to Chioma Avril Rowland in 2023.
Davido’s personal life has been a subject of interest for many. Being a public figure with so much flamboyant and lavish lifestyle, he often make headlines with his high-profile relationships. Also, he has been quite open about his relationships and romantic life.
Importantly, one can’t help but attest that Davido’s charm has linked him to several women over the years. From his early days of music journey to his present status, his love life has been a topic of interest among fans and the media alike.
However, Davido has always strived to maintain a level of privacy when it comes to his personal relationships. While he has been open about his past romances, he has also kept several aspects of his love life out of the spotlight.
His relationships with the women in his life are characterized by passion, love, and the challenges of maintaining a high-profile romance in the public eye. Yet, amidst the ups and downs, he has remained committed to his music. It’s has become an accepted fact that Davido strives to find the balance between his personal and professional life.
In October 2023, Davido welcomed a set of twins with his spouse, Chioma Rowland. This is 11 months after Davido and Chioma lost their son, Ifeanyi Adeleke, in a tragic drowning accident in his Banana Island residence, in Lagos. The afrobeat singer still misses his son, as he almost quit music following the tragic news, as some online media reported.
But losing a dear one, is not the first time for Davido. He lost his mother, who was a university lecturer before her demise in 2003. According to him, the death of his mother was the most traumatic period in his life at the time.
He attributed his love for entertaining people to his mother. Her demise serves as a well of inspiration for him as he disclosed in a statement. “She is the reason I do what I do…she loved to entertain and I plan to carry that legacy”, he said. Meanwhile, there is a possibility a new well of inspiration opened for him after losing Ifeanyi, since he misses his late son so much.
Davido’s fame and success, great enough, is yet to disconnect him from his roots. He is glued to family, friends, and fans. Thus, he often draws creativity from his personal experiences and relationships. Official reports reveal Davido has a fatherly relationship with his kids. He talks about his kids and uses his social media handles to celebrate them.
Davido’s Relationship with Chioma Rowland
Davido is married to Chioma Avril Rowland. He confirmed this in March 2023 following numerous tales of their love and relationship. The music entertainer crossed paths with his wife in 2013 at Babcock University. They remained friends since then, until 2015 when they quietly began to date.
While David hails from Osun state, his wife, Chioma is a native of Imo state. She was born 1st of April in Owerri, Nigeria. She studied Economics at Babcock University and has grown to become an established chef and model.
Davido proposed to her in London, 2019 and they were set to get married in 2020. Unfortunately, the outbreak of Covid 19 led the lovers to cancel their marriage plans.
According to YEN, an online news media, Chioma officially married Davido on 4th November 2022 at a private customary court where he paid her bride price. The couple is believed to live together with their kids in Lagos.
At the Bridge show, Davido disclosed Chioma loves him for who he is and not what he has acquired. In his words, “I met my wife when I had no money,…”, he said. The duo are parents of twins and a deceased son, Ifeanyi Adeleke, who died a few days after his third year birthday.
Philanthropy Activities
In addition to his generous nature, the Afrobeat guru established the David Adeleke’s Foundation (DAF) in 2022. The aim was to assist those in need, particularly the underprivileged. Davido has an unrelenting passion for helping others.
In February, 2024, Channel Television reported the ‘Skelewu’ singer pledged to donate N300 million as his annual contribution through his foundation to orphanages in the nation. This move is a similar gesture he showed in 2023 when he donated N237 million, distributed among 424 orphanages across Nigeria.
Networth
Davido is not just wealthy but a rich kid. Forbes Magazine estimated his net worth at $90 million. His father, Adedeji Adeleke,
a force to be reckoned with in the Nigerian business is worth $1.3 billion.
Notably, Davido riches accrues from various sources, including his social media followership. He is an artist with one of the highest followers on all social handles. His YouTube page alone has over 663 million views. That’s a lot of money.
According to Carmart’s richest musicians list, OBO is the richest and highest-paid artist in Nigeria as he acquired his riches from being a musician. He charges between N10 million – N40 million for Nigerian shows and about $100,000 – $200,000 per show abroad.
He is also a brand ambassador for top brands like Infinix, Guinness, MTN, Pepsi, AXE, and Close Up. All of these fuels his purse as he acquires luxury cars and properties.
Besides being wealthy, Davido doesn’t fail to showcase his wealth. He owns lots of fancy cars. Some of them include a Rolls Royce Phantom, Toyota Land Cruiser, Mercedes Benz Sedan AMG series, Chevrolet Camaro GS, Lamborghini Uru, Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Carrera, Range Rover, and a brand-new Lamborghini Huracan.
Additionally, Caclubindia.com reveals Davido has a whopping inheritance worth $160 million with 50+ real estate to his name.
Davido’s Routine
Davido probably wakes up around 7 or 8 a.m. ready to seize the day. The Africa’s most followed artist’s day will obviously be a lot. From incorporating workout routines and staying healthy to lined up schedules and commitments.
When not traveling for performances, he will likely be engaged in activities that contribute to his success. As both an entertainer and entrepreneur, he will have to keep up a busy life. From studio training and collaborations, to business meetings and adventures. Hopefully, his days are filled with purposeful pursuits, aimed at advancing his career and person.
A lot of musicians, who would love to collabo with the song star, will not mind being in his waiting list. His networking with industry professionals, and strategizing for future projects are part of his daily experience, even untold.
Davido’s daily routine is likely a dynamic balance of work, creativity, personal time, and relaxation. He must also have time to engage his fans with his social space on Twitter, and Instagram as he juggles the demands of a multifaceted career, family and lifestyle.
His unwavering commitment for excellence is one thing that pushes his act forward. His dedication to music and entrepreneurial spirit serve as a testament to his relentless pursuit of success and his enduring impact on the African music timeline.
Attractions Outside Music
Arguably, the American-born singer likely finds joy and fulfillment in creating music. While in Oakwood, he brought musical instruments making and experimenting with different beats and lyrics alongside his studies. He invariably had to succumb to the esteemed hobby, music.
Davido may hardly engage in soccer as compared to traveling and cruising in his private jet, yet, football seems like a spice for him. Thoughtfully, FIFA saw this when he was selected to lead the 2022 World Cup soundtrack collaboration.
Also, Davido manages a vibrant social life well. His Instagram is dripping followers, with over 2M followers. According to HypeAuditor.com, the average number of likes and comments for Davido’s post on IG is 210.7k and 8.7k respectively.
Davido’s social life is a pointer to his love for socializing, and spending time with fellow celebrities. Moreover, with his flamboyant life, If he is not shopping for new clothes, he’s probably having a nice time with his heartthrob, Chioma.
Top Davido’s Songs
- Fall – One of his biggest hits, known for its catchy melody and widespread international appeal.
- If – Another major hit that solidified his status in the Afrobeats genre.
- FIA – Known for its energetic beat and memorable lyrics.
- Assurance – A song dedicated to his then-girlfriend Chioma, celebrated for its romantic lyrics.
- Blow My Mind (featuring Chris Brown) – A successful international collaboration.
- Risky (featuring Popcaan) – Known for its dancehall influence and catchy chorus.
- Aye – A song that captures the essence of Afrobeat with a love story.
- Gobe – A lively track that talks about love and betrayal.
- Skelewu – Famous for its dance moves and upbeat tempo.
- Dami Duro – The song that brought him into the limelight, with energetic beats.
- The Sound (featuring Uhuru & DJ Buckz) – Known for its distinctive South African house influences.
- Jowo – A recent hit from his album “A Better Time,” featuring a smooth Afrobeat rhythm.
- Fem – Released in 2020, it quickly became an anthem of sorts for various social movements.
- Wonder Woman – Celebrates and appreciates the women in his life.
- Coolest Kid in Africa (featuring Nasty C) – A collaboration with South African rapper Nasty C.
- Like Dat – An upbeat, danceable track.
- Ekuro – One of his earlier hits, known for its soft and melodic tune.
- Pere (featuring Rae Sremmurd & Young Thug) – An international collaboration that blends different styles.
- All of You – Davido boasts about his achievements and success in this track.
- So Crazy (featuring Lil Baby) – A recent international collaboration that mixes Afrobeats with American rap.