I built my career without a godfather or industry backing – Davido
By Hannah Johnson
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| David Adeleke |
Afrobeats icon David Adeleke, globally recognized as Davido, has taken a moment to reflect on his remarkable career journey while celebrating a significant milestone: surpassing 11 million monthly listeners on Spotify for the very first time. This achievement comes on the heels of the release of his highly anticipated fifth studio album, aptly titled "5ive," which has continued to captivate audiences and garner widespread critical acclaim.
In a moment of introspection, Davido expressed immense pride in the distance he has traveled and the heights he has reached, emphasizing that his unprecedented success was not the product of industry endorsements or the patronage of influential mentors. Unlike many of his contemporaries who benefited from early support from established figures within the music industry, Davido forged his own path, building his career from the ground up through sheer perseverance, unwavering dedication, and an undeniable talent for crafting infectious Afrobeats anthems.
Davido was quick to acknowledge the crucial role that divine grace has played in his success. He has always attributed much of his unprecedented achievement to divine blessings and guidance, acknowledging that without such favour, his hard work and dedication alone would not have been sufficient to achieve such incredible heights.
In addition to attributing his success to divine grace, Davido also expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support of his dedicated fanbase. He acknowledged that the loyalty and enthusiasm of his fans have been instrumental in his journey, providing him with the motivation and inspiration to consistently push the boundaries of his creativity and deliver music that resonates with audiences across the globe.
Davido shared his thoughts with his fans on social media, writing, “No co-sign, built from the ground up! Just God, good music and the best fans! I Appreciate you guys fr [for real]!" This succinct statement encapsulates the core elements of Davido's success: faith, talent, and a deep appreciation for his supporters.
In a lighthearted tone, Davido also questioned the notion of needing a "co-sign" at this stage of his career, playfully suggesting that someone of his stature is already a "big man" in his own right. He added, "Who wan even CO-SIGN big man like me ?? Hmmm another angle sha 5️⃣," subtly referencing his latest album, "5ive."
"5ive," Davido’s latest offering which released on April 18, 2025, features a collection of 17 tracks that showcase his versatility and musical prowess. The album has swiftly become a runaway success, amassing millions of streams across various platforms and solidifying Davido's position at the top of the Afrobeats charts. The album's widespread popularity is a testament to Davido's ability to consistently deliver high-quality music that connects with listeners on a deep and emotional level.