Davido new album 5ive is more than a music release. It represents cultural pride, healing, and creative growth. As Afrobeats dominates global charts, Davido looks back on the journey from invisibility to influence.
“I remember when Africans used to lie that they were Jamaicans,” he recalled with a laugh. Today, that narrative has changed. He credits not governments, but innovators—artists, doctors, and entertainers pushing African identity forward.
Davido, raised between Atlanta and Lagos, is now a central figure in global Afrobeats. His catalog includes songs with over 100 million streams. He is widely seen as a key player in bringing the sound to the world.
His fifth studio album, “5ive,” drops this Friday. It features Chris Brown, Victoria Monét, Becky G, Omah Lay, and Victony. The 17-track project blends international flair with African essence.
Initially, Davido chose the title “5ive” because it was his fifth album. Later, he learned the number symbolizes hope, grace, change, and growth. These themes now define both the album and his life.
In 2022, Davido lost his three-year-old son in a drowning accident. The tragedy changed everything. Soon after, he and his partner welcomed twins—a boy and a girl. “Now, life is just different,” he shared. “Family and good people around you matter most. That energy shaped this album.”
Despite the loss, Davido’s creative process stayed focused. He started with 80 songs, then trimmed the list using feedback from family and friends.
As Afrobeats continues its global rise, Davido urges artists not to forget their roots. “Some blow up and run to America for tours. What happened to Ibadan?” he asked. “We’ll last longer if we remember where we came from.”
On unity in the genre, he sees progress. Long-standing tensions among male stars—like himself, Wizkid, and Burna Boy—may soften. “We’re older now, more mature. You might see us do a tour together someday,” he said.
He admires Latin artists for their unity. “When I see Bad Bunny working with Peso Pluma and others, it inspires me,” he added.
When asked about non-Africans adopting Afrobeats, Davido didn’t hold back. “They can’t do it better than us!” he joked. “Chris Brown can sing R&B, but he can’t sing Afrobeats like me.” Still, he supports collaborations—so long as credit is given and African producers are involved.
Above all, Davido wants “5ive” to inspire others. “Look at my story,” he said. “If I can overcome tragedy, anyone can.” His previous album “Timeless” broke streaming records. They celebrated its success with the same people who supported him through grief.
