Nigerian superstar Davido has opened up about the early influences that inspired him to pursue a music career. In a recent interview on Streetz Studio with Et Cali, Davido revealed how legendary Afrobeats pioneers Don Jazzy and D’banj played a pivotal role in shaping his dream of becoming an artist.
Reflecting on his teenage years in Atlanta, Georgia, Davido shared a memorable encounter with the two icons. At just 14 years old, he had the opportunity to pick up Don Jazzy and D’banj from the airport and host them during their visit. While taking them around Atlanta, he witnessed firsthand the lavish lifestyle of music stars, including an unforgettable moment when they spent over $20,000 at a club.
This glimpse into the superstar life planted a seed of ambition in the young Davido, who later made the bold decision to drop out of school and return to Lagos to chase his dream. In a previous interview, Davido credited D’banj specifically as his first exposure to a Nigerian artist with significant international appeal.
D’banj’s global breakout hit Oliver Twist was a defining moment in Afrobeats history, opening doors for Nigerian music on the international stage. Davido has often cited the song and D’banj’s success as a source of motivation for his own journey.
Today, Davido stands as one of Africa’s biggest music stars, with a career spanning over a decade. His four Grammy nominations and chart-topping hits reflect his dedication to his craft and his impact on global music. As he prepares to close out 2024 with a new single featuring Odumodublvck and Chike, fans are reminded of the journey that brought him to this point.
Davido’s story is a testament to the power of inspiration and the influence of trailblazers like Don Jazzy and D’banj, whose contributions continue to shape the next generation of African music stars.
