His family had money, and many people expected him to join the family business. Instead, David Adeleke dropped out of business studies in the United States, returned to Lagos and started making music. In 2011, his song Dami Duro became a street anthem. More than a decade later, Davido is one of the biggest stars in Afrobeats, with global hits, stadium shows and Grammy nominations.
Early life and early hits
David Adedeji Adeleke was born in Atlanta in 1992 and grew up in Lagos. His father is the businessman Adedeji Adeleke, and his uncle, Ademola Adeleke, became governor of Osun State in 2022. Dami Duro, released in 2011, was his breakthrough. His debut album, Omo Baba Olowo, followed in 2012. Songs such as Aye, Skelewu and If made him one of Nigeria’s most consistent hitmakers.
Fall, released in 2017, became one of the most successful Afrobeats songs in the United States and earned certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.
30BG, Timeless and loss
His fan base and crew are known as 30BG, the 30 Billion Gang, and he founded the label Davido Music Worldwide. His 2023 album, Timeless, was a major success and earned him Grammy nominations, including for Best African Music Performance with the song Unavailable. In 2022, Davido and his partner Chioma lost their son, Ifeanyi, a tragedy that drew sympathy from fans worldwide. He stepped away from the spotlight for months.
He and Chioma held a lavish wedding in Lagos in 2024, nicknamed Chivido by fans. Davido has raised and donated money to orphanages and charities, including donations made through his birthday appeals.
Rivalries, stadiums and family
Fans often compare him with Wizkid and Burna Boy, and rivalries between fan bases are intense online. He has headlined major venues in London, Lagos and the United States. Davido has worked with international stars including Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj and Popcaan, and with leading African artists. His features helped introduce Afrobeats to audiences beyond Africa and the diaspora.
His family’s prominence in Osun State politics has kept him in the news beyond music, and he campaigned publicly for his uncle Ademola Adeleke during the governorship race. Davido could have spent his life in boardrooms. He chose studios and stages, and the boy born in Atlanta became the voice of a generation of Lagos parties.
