Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has raised concerns about changing international demand for Nigerian artistes, urging established stars to consider returning to Nigeria to perform more regularly.
Davido made the remarks during an interview on The Uncut Podcast, where he reflected on the evolving music markets in the United Kingdom and the United States.
According to the singer, international audiences are becoming increasingly familiar with Nigerian artistes, resulting in what he described as a decline in the novelty and commercial appeal of Nigerian music acts overseas.
He expressed hope that leading Nigerian artistes would return home to focus more on performances in the local market over the next decade.
“In the next 10 years I want the music OGs to come back to Nigeria. There is already ‘see finish’ in London, America, honestly,” he said.
Davido compared the current situation with the international demand for Nigerian artistes a few years ago, noting that fewer artistes are now able to independently sell out major venues abroad.
“Three years ago at least 20 artists can come to London and do show and get sold out, but now I can count maybe 4 or 5 and we all know them. We can all see the shift,” Davido stated.
The singer’s comments come amid the continued global expansion of Afrobeats, with Nigerian artistes increasingly performing at major international venues and collaborating with prominent global musicians.
BACKSTORY:
Davido’s comments come against the backdrop of the rapid global growth of Afrobeats, with Nigerian artistes increasingly attracting international audiences and performing at major venues across the UK, US and other countries.
Over the years, artistes such as Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy and other leading Nigerian acts have helped take Afrobeats beyond Africa through international tours, collaborations and sold-out concerts.
However, the growing popularity of Nigerian music abroad has also brought increased competition, with more artistes competing for audiences and major venues. Davido’s remarks highlight his view that the international market may be becoming more familiar with Nigerian artistes, making it important for established musicians to continue strengthening their connection with audiences back home.
His call for the industry’s “OGs” to return to Nigeria also draws attention to the importance of the domestic entertainment market in sustaining the growth of Afrobeats.
