The wait is over! Afrobeats heavyweight Davido has officially released his highly anticipated fifth studio album, 5ive, and it’s already creating waves across the music world.
The album marks Davido’s sixth overall project in a 14-year career that has seen him evolve into a global music icon. 5ive boasts 17 tracks and features a stellar mix of both local and international collaborators, showing once again why Davido remains at the forefront of African music.
From the home front, Davido taps Afrobeats sensations Omah Lay, Victony, OdumoduBlvck, and Chikethe latter appearing on the soulful anthem Fund. These features bring rich Nigerian flavor to a project that’s just as global in scope.
On the international side, the album welcomes YG Marley, the rising Jamaican artist featured on the reggae-tinged Awuke, which served as the album’s first single. Other Caribbean stars Shenseea and 450 bring even more island vibes to the mix.
Davido’s long-time American collaborator Chris Brown returns, alongside Grammy-winning R&B sensation Victoria Monét and Latin pop star Becky G, further showcasing the album’s cross-continental appeal.
South African hitmaker Musa Keys, who collaborated with Davido on the Grammy-nominated Unavailable, is also back, continuing their musical synergy.
And for the Francophone audience? Davido didn’t forget you, Dadju and Tayc appear on the album, expanding his reach across Europe and Africa alike.
In recent interviews, Davido shared that 5ive is more personal than ever. Speaking on Clue Radio, he revealed that he took a deeper dive into production, reconnecting with the creative side of music-making that often takes a backseat to performing.
He also appeared on a Twitch livestream with alté star Cruel Santino, where he explained the meaning behind the album title 5ive. According to Davido, the title is symbolic of evolution, milestones, and creative rebirth.
Before the album’s release, fans got a taste of 5ive through three pre-released singles, the most recent being the Amapiano-infused party-starter “Be There Still”, which is already heating up playlists and dance floors.
Following the massive success of 2023’s Timeless, which included viral hits and Grammy nods, the pressure is definitely on. But if early reactions are anything to go by, 5ive just might be another classic in the making.
