Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has opened up about the changing dynamics within the Nigerian music industry, noting that growing financial success and global recognition have affected relationships among artists.
Speaking during a recent episode of the Uncut Podcast, the “Oriade” singer acknowledged that Afrobeats has become significantly more lucrative than it was in the past. However, he expressed concern that the camaraderie that once existed among artists has declined.
Davido recalled the early days of his career in the early 2010s, describing the period as one when artists supported one another and maintained closer relationships.
He remembered how some of his colleagues were present in the studio when he recorded “Dami Duro,” the hit song that helped establish him as a major force in Nigerian music.
According to the singer, intense competition and rivalry gradually became more prominent as Afrobeats artists achieved greater financial success and international recognition.
Davido suggested that the rapid growth of the genre has changed the way artists relate to one another, with competition becoming a more significant part of the industry.
His comments highlight the transformation of Afrobeats from a largely local genre into a globally recognised sound, while also drawing attention to the changing relationships among some of its leading performers.
BACKSTORY:
Afrobeats has experienced significant global growth over the past decade, with Nigerian artists increasingly gaining international recognition, major streaming numbers and lucrative commercial opportunities.
Davido emerged as one of the leading figures of the genre during its rapid expansion in the early 2010s, with songs such as “Dami Duro” helping to establish his career.
As the genre has grown into a major global export, competition among Nigerian artists has also intensified. Davido’s comments offer his perspective on how the increasing commercial value and international profile of Afrobeats have influenced relationships within the industry.
