INFORMATION
| Artist Birtday : | 21/11/1992(Age 33) |
| Born In : | Osun State |
| Occupation(s) : | Musician |
| Genres : | Afro beats |
| Agent : | DMW |
| Web Site : | www.iamdavido.com |
David Adedeji Adeleke, famously known by his stage name Davido, is a Nigerian-American singer, songwriter, and record producer who has become one of Africa’s most influential music stars. Born on November 21, 1992, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, Davido is the son of Adedeji Adeleke, a wealthy Nigerian business magnate, and Vero Adeleke, a university lecturer. Though born into affluence, Davido’s path to success in music was marked by passion, ambition, and relentless hard work rather than reliance on his family’s wealth.
Davido spent much of his early life in Lagos, Nigeria, where he developed an interest in music during his teenage years. He initially studied business administration at Oakwood University in Alabama, but his passion for music led him to abandon his studies and focus entirely on his music career. During his time in the United States, he bought musical equipment and started making beats, honing his craft as a producer before transitioning fully into singing and performing.
In 2011, Davido returned to Nigeria and burst onto the music scene with his hit single “Dami Duro,” a vibrant Afrobeat track that quickly became a nationwide anthem. His energetic performance style, catchy hooks, and fusion of traditional African sounds with contemporary pop music distinguished him from his peers. Following the massive success of “Dami Duro,” Davido released his debut studio album, “Omo Baba Olowo” (2012), which solidified his status as a rising star. The album produced several hit singles, including “Back When,” “Ekuro,” “Overseas,” and “All of You,” earning him the Next Rated award at The Headies 2012.
Despite his early success, Davido understood the importance of education and eventually earned a degree in music from Babcock University in Nigeria, a program reportedly tailored for him due to his father’s influence. This academic achievement was seen as a fulfillment of a personal and familial obligation, even as his fame continued to soar.
Davido’s career trajectory has been marked by an impressive string of hits, collaborations, and international recognition. Songs like “Skelewu,” “Aye,” “Gobe,” and “Fans Mi” featuring Meek Mill expanded his appeal across Africa and beyond. His unique ability to craft infectious melodies and relatable lyrics helped him bridge cultural and continental divides, making Afrobeat a global sound.
In 2016, Davido signed a record deal with Sony Music through its subsidiary, RCA Records. He later launched his own label, Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), signing talents like Mayorkun, Dremo, Peruzzi, and Liya. DMW became a powerful imprint in the Nigerian music industry, known for consistently producing chart-topping hits.
Davido’s 2017 single “If” and the follow-up “Fall” were monumental, with “Fall” achieving historic success by becoming one of the longest-charting Nigerian pop songs in Billboard history. These tracks further solidified his reputation as a heavyweight in the global music scene. In 2019, he released his sophomore album “A Good Time,” featuring collaborations with Chris Brown, Summer Walker, and other international stars. The album was praised for its polished production, infectious rhythms, and Davido’s matured artistic expression.
Continuing his momentum, Davido dropped “A Better Time” in 2020, an album that reflected his growth both personally and professionally. It featured global acts such as Nicki Minaj, Lil Baby, and Nas, showcasing his commitment to pushing African music to international frontiers. Personal experiences, including the birth of his children and the tragic loss of loved ones, began to deeply influence his lyrical themes, adding layers of emotion and introspection to his work.
Beyond music, Davido is widely admired for his philanthropy and charisma. He has made numerous charitable donations, supported education initiatives, and often uses his platform to advocate for social causes. In 2021, when he celebrated his birthday by crowd-sourcing donations from friends and fans, he shocked many by donating the entire sum — over 250 million naira — to orphanages across Nigeria.
Davido’s personal life often makes headlines, from his relationship with his longtime partner and fiancée Chioma Avril Rowland, to his close relationship with his family, particularly his late mother, whose memory he frequently honours. Despite facing criticism and controversies like any celebrity of his stature, Davido has remained resilient, using his challenges as fuel for his creative fire.
In 2023, Davido made a monumental comeback with his critically acclaimed album “Timeless,” featuring tracks like “Unavailable,” “Feel,” and “No Competition.” The album showcased a more reflective, matured Davido, grappling with personal loss but affirming hope and perseverance through music. “Timeless” further established him as an artist capable of evolving without losing the vibrant spirit that made him a superstar.
Throughout his career, Davido has received numerous awards, including BET Awards, MTV Africa Music Awards, and multiple Headies Awards. His influence extends beyond music; he is seen as a cultural ambassador who has helped shape the global perception of African talent. In addition to his musical achievements, Davido has been recognized for his impact on African youth, representing a new generation that is bold, expressive, and unafraid to dream on a global scale.
Today, Davido stands as one of Africa’s most successful and beloved music icons, with a career that continues to inspire millions. His journey from a young dreamer in Lagos to an international sensation is a testament to talent, resilience, and the unrelenting belief that with passion and hard work, anything is possible.
