Davido, ‘The King of Afrobeats,’ is a towering figure in the dynamic landscape of contemporary music. As of 2023, he has gained international acclaim for his influence that extends far beyond his homeland, Nigeria. With three Grammy nominations, Davido connects diverse audiences with the vibrant sounds of Afrobeats, transcending conventional boundaries with his musical prowess.
In this exclusive interview with Numéro Netherlands, Marek Bartek takes us through the multifaceted journey of Davido’s career. From the groundbreaking success of his album ‘Timeless’ to the launch of the A.W.A.Y. Festival, Davido has a profound impact on the global music scene. We explore his creative process, the evolution of his music, the significance of Afrobeats on the world stage, and his vision for the future. This conversation reveals the essence of Davido’s artistry and his dedication to celebrating and elevating African culture worldwide.
Celebrating ‘Timeless’ Success:
Davido’s album ‘Timeless’ became the biggest African album globally with its first-day streams on Apple Music. Davido says, “I wanted to create an album that celebrated African sounds and artists,” highlighting a timeless quality that resonates both today and in the future. The album’s pure creative process involved a more intimate collaboration with his producers, earning widespread acclaim.
Evolution of Music:
Davido recognizes the natural progression artists go through, discussing the evolution from ‘A Better Time’ to ‘Timeless.’ He experiments with different beats and collaborations, but he maintains that his music will always embody his cultural roots and the energetic spirit of Africa.
Influence on Afrobeats Recognition:
Davido views his achievements, including Grammy nominations, as positive for the whole Afrobeats community. He welcomes the Grammy’s recognition of Afrobeats as a separate category, but he admits that there is more progress to be made.
Love for Afrobeats:
Davido chose Afrobeats to stay true to his roots and represent his culture authentically, despite diverse musical influences during his time in the US. His decision to return home and create music that reflects his heritage sets him apart.
A.W.A.Y. Festival:
The A.W.A.Y. Festival, launched in November, serves as a cultural exchange between Africa and the world, showcasing music, food, and art. Davido expresses pride in its success, emphasizing plans to expand the festival to various cities and countries.
TikTok and Global Reach:
Davido acknowledges the power of platforms like TikTok, where the ‘Unavailable’ dance challenge amassed over 100 million videos. He appreciates the platform for connecting artists with diverse audiences globally, citing its role in expanding his reach.
Memorable Tour Moments:
Davido cherishes reconnecting with fans post-pandemic, reflecting on sold-out tours in the US and internationally. The energy and enthusiasm from audiences worldwide, singing every word, have been the most memorable aspects of his recent tours.
Future Plans:
Davido promises more music, collaborations, and extensive touring in 2024. With upcoming shows at Madison Square Garden and the O2 in London, he anticipates an incredible year ahead.
Davido’s journey exemplifies not only musical success but also a commitment to showcasing the richness of African culture on the global stage. He is more than a successful musician; he is a cultural ambassador who showcases the richness and diversity of African sounds and art. Through his album ‘Timeless,’ his festival A.W.A.Y., and his global tours, he connects with millions of fans and inspires the next generation of Afrobeats artists. His passion for his roots and his vision for the future make him a unique and influential figure in the world of music. Davido’s story is a testament to the power and potential of Afrobeats on the global stage.
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TEAM
Talent: Davido @davido
Photographer: Raul Romo @raulromo
Stylist: Blake Hardy @blakefromohio
Grooming: Morgan Marinoff @morganmarinoffmua
Editor: Timi Letonja @timiletonja
Editorial director: Jana Letonja @janaletonja
Interview: Marek Bartek @marekbartek
Cover design: Arthur Roeloffzen @arthurroeloffen
Shot at NLA Studios @nlastudios
English