David Adedeji Adeleke, better known as Davido, is a
Nigerian-American singer, songwriter, and record producer who has made his mark
on the world music stage with his blend of Afrobeats and modern sounds. Born on
November 21, 1992, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, to Nigerian parents Adedeji and
Vero Adeleke, Davido's success story from a budding music fan to global
celebrity is proof of his hard work, persistence, and perseverance.
Early Life and Education
Davido is from a wealthy Nigerian family, his dad, Adedeji
Adeleke, is an entrepreneur, and his late mum, Vero Adeleke, was a university
lecturer. Davido is the youngest of five kids and was brought up in Lagos,
Nigeria, where he attended the British International School. Davido returned to
the United States when he was 16 to study at Oakwood University in Alabama and
take a course in business administration. It is here at Oakwood that Davido's
interest in music was further fueled. He went ahead and purchased musical
equipment, produced beats, and even recorded vocal tips. With cousins B-Red and
Sina Rambo, he formed his music crew called KB International. His studies went
into ruins, however, he was pushed out to London, where he attempted to
improve on his vocals. In 2011, Davido went back to Nigeria and enrolled at Babcock
University to fulfill his father's dream. He graduated in July 2015 with a
music degree, a course that was specially designed for him with the help of his
father.
Career
The music career of the sensational afrobeat 001
"Davido" started in 2011 when he released "Dami Duro,"
which was the second single from his debut studio album called Omo Baba Olowo
(2012). It had a combination of Afrobeats and hip-hop, with guest features on
it by the likes of Naeto C and Ice Prince. Despite its mixed reception in its
lyrics, the album earned him the Next Rated award at The Headies in 2012.
Between 2013 and 2015, Davido put out a series of successful singles, including
"Gobe," "One of a Kind," "Skelewu,"
"Aye," and "Tchelete (Goodlife)" with South African duo
Mafikizolo.
Davido signed a record contract with Sony Music in January
2016, an act that met mixed reactions from the fans and industry stakeholders.
He later established his own record label, Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), and
signed Dremo and Mayorkun, among others. In July 2016, he signed with RCA
Records, a subsidiary of Sony. By October 2016, he dropped his five-tracker EP,
titled "Son of Mercy", with singles like "Gbagbe Oshi,"
"How Long," and "Coolest Kid in Africa." After his contract
Renegotiation with Sony in 2017 over issues of creativity, he then released the
global hit singles "If" and "Fall." "Fall" was
especially the longest-running Nigerian pop song on Billboard charts.
Davido's second album, A Good Time, dropped in November
2019, spearheaded by singles such as "Blow My Mind" with Chris Brown.
The cover of the album featured Davido, his dad, and a sculpture of his late
mom, representing how much family meant to him. He proceeded to release his
third studio album, A Better Time, in November 2020, which included
collaborations with international artists such as Nicki Minaj, Nas, and Young
Thug.
Davido's international recognition was earned in 2021 when
he featured on the official FIFA World Cup album of the 2022 World Cup,
alongside Trinidad Cardona and AISHA, singing "Hayya Hayya (Better
Together)." This marked a milestone for the sensational African artist with him being the first Nigerian artist to feature on a FIFA World Cup album.
On 31 March 2023 Davido released his forth studio album
titled “Timeless” featuring top artist like Asake, Skepta, Angelique Kidjo,
Cavemen and others, receiving 3 Grammy nominations with the album for Best
Global Music Performance, Best Global Music Album and Best African Music
Performance.
2025 is already looking like a promising year for the
international star Davido with him making history by becoming the first every
African star to cover the RollingStone Africa Magazine and his album titled
“5ive” which is definitely going to be released on 18 April 2025.
Personal Life
The life of Davido has not been free from the spotlight.
Davido has three children with different partners. He married his long-time
girlfriend Chioma Rowland on June 25, 2024. Sadly, in October 2022, Davido's
three-year-old son Ifeanyi drowned at their Lagos home. Loss aside, though,
Davido and Chioma welcomed twins in October 2023, bringing their family new
joy.
Net Worth
Davido's net worth as of 2025 is estimated at over $38
million. He earns his fortune from a variety of sources, including music sales,
endorsements, and investment. He has also earned good sums from endorsement
deals with institutions such as MTN Nigeria and Guinness Nigeria. In addition,
Davido has crossed into acting by appearing in the 2021 film Coming 2 America
in a cameo appearance. His entrepreneurial spirit is also evidenced by his role
as a cultural ambassador for Nigeria and his involvement in philanthropy across
Africa.
Conclusion
Davido's ascent from a little boy in Lagos to worldwide music
icon is one of passion, determination, and innovation. His success in the music
industry and role as cultural ambassador continue to inspire many, making him
one of Africa's biggest artists.
