From chart-topping albums to sold-out arenas, Davido is a name synonymous with Afrobeats royalty. But beyond the music, there’s a fascinating story waiting to be explored. This article takes a closer look at the life of the multi-award winner with 10 intriguing facts that reveal Davido’s musical genius, family legacy, and surprising personal life choices. So read on to discover a side of Davido you might not know about.

1.  He is an American citizen by birth

Adding another layer to Davido’s fascinating background is his status as a dual citizen. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, he holds both Nigerian and American citizenship. This unique position allows him to bridge the gap between his musical influences and his Nigerian heritage.

His upbringing in both countries likely influenced his music, potentially creating a unique blend of Afrobeat and American musical styles, seamlessly blending sounds with several diaspora acts such as Chris Brown, Lil Baby, Young Thug, Nicki Minaj, Meek Mill, Teyana Teylor and a host of others

Despite being born in the US, Davido identifies strongly with his Nigerian roots. Holding Nigerian citizenship allows him to fully participate in his home country’s music scene and connect with his Nigerian fans on a deeper level.

2.  He hails from a politically successful lineage

Nigerian singer Davido boasts a family lineage steeped in both politics and music. His grandfather, Senator Ayoola Raji Adeleke, served in the Second Republic Senate. Davido’s late uncle, Isiaka Adeleke, achieved even greater political heights, becoming the first civilian Governor of Osun State and retaining his Senate seat until his passing in 2017. The political influence continues with another uncle, Ademola Adeleke, who is not only a professor but also a former senator and currently holds the governorship of Osun State. Interestingly, music runs in the family as well. Ademola Adeleke is the father of singers Shina “Sina Rambo” Adeleke and Adebayo “B-Red” Adeleke.

3.  He is a chief in Delta State

Davido’s own achievements extend beyond the music scene. In 2019, he was honoured with a chieftaincy title in Ibusa land, Delta State. This recognition solidified his connection to the

south-south region of Nigeria. The chieftaincy ceremony followed just days after he successfully built anticipation for a concert held at the Asaba Stadium.

4.  He lost his mom at a tender age

Davido’s life has been marked by both immense success and heartbreaking loss. He tragically lost his mother, Veronica Adeleke, at the young age of 11. Veronica, a brilliant lecturer at Babcock University, was not only a pillar of support for Davido but also a successful academic in her own right. Born in 1963, Veronica tragically passed away in 2003 after a brief illness, leaving a void in Davido’s life that continues to resonate, as the singer continually shares posts to social media honouring his late mum.

While some sources state she was a professor, others describe her as a lecturer. Regardless of title, her influence is undeniable. Veronica was the biological mother of both Adewale Adeleke, also known as Chairman HKN, and Davido. Despite this early loss, Davido has achieved remarkable things, and his mother’s memory undoubtedly remains a source of inspiration for him.

 

5.  He initially ditched school to pursue music

Davido initially pursued a Business Administration degree at Oakwood University in Alabama. Though surrounded by textbooks and lectures , his heart belonged to the beats and infectious melodies that filled his head. The decision wasn’t easy, but driven by a passion that couldn’t be ignored, Davido made a bold move. He packed his bags and returned to Nigeria, a country where music wasn’t just an interest, it was a lifeblood.

This wasn’t a reckless leap of faith. Back home, an opportunity awaited that perfectly bridged his love for music. Eventually his move wasn’t in vain as he blew up and took over the airwaves within and outside Nigeria, solidifying his legacy musically.

Years later Babcock University, with the help of his father, had established a burgeoning music program. This twist of fate allowed Davido to finally pursue his true calling in a familiar environment. In 2015, the singer surprised everyone. Davido emerged from Babcock University not with a business degree, but with a degree in Music

6.  He has been on a track with Wizkid Twice

Davido and Wizkid, two titans of Afrobeats, have a relationship that could be described as a complicated bromance. Despite their public spats and online jibes, they’ve surprisingly been on tracks together twice in the past.

The very first time was in 2011 with the remix of Dotstar’s song “Expensive.” This track featured a constellation of Afrobeats stars, including Davido, Wizkid, Ice Prince, Dr Sid, Lynxx, and eLDee Tha Don. Both Davido and Wizkid impressed fans with their fiery verses, showcasing their early chemistry.

Fast forward to 2015, they joined forces once again on the remix of “Freek of the Week” by British rap duo Krept and Konan. This track also featured American R&B singer Jeremih, Fuse ODG, and Ice Prince.

However, their musical collaborations haven’t translated to a smooth public relationship or a collaboration between just the two heavyweights. Over the years, fans have witnessed a back-and-forth between the two artists on social media, with subliminal jabs sometimes escalating into online spats. While some fans hold onto the hope of a future collaboration,

recent events suggest otherwise. A video surfaced online showing a disoriented Davido, leading to Wizkid’s online trolling and Davido’s response which has been the highlight of news blogs recently.

 

7.    He is a proud father of a set of twins

In 2023, he welcomed a set of twins, a boy and a girl, with his partner Chioma Rowland. This joyous occasion arrived just over a year after the devastating passing of their son, Ifeanyi Adeleke, in October 2022. Davido has publicly acknowledged the depth of his grief and the support he received from his faith and loved ones during this challenging period.

Despite the tragedy, the birth of the twins signifies a new chapter for Davido’s family. He is now the proud father of five children – two sons and three daughters. This update incorporates the information about his recent twins and clarifies the total number of children while maintaining a professional tone.

 

8.  His album Timeless is a U.K chart record holder

Davido’s album “Timeless” made a record-breaking debut, solidifying his position as a major force in Afrobeats. It became the first Afrobeats album ever to have all its tracks land within the top 100 of the Apple Music Top Songs chart in the UK. This incredible feat wasn’t limited to just the UK – Davido also achieved another first for Afrobeats artists in the US. “Timeless” managed to place a whopping 10 tracks within the top 200 of the Apple Music Top Songs chart there.

These record-breaking achievements showcase the immense popularity of “Timeless” and Davido’s ability to captivate audiences worldwide.

 

9.  He is a husband

Despite being a ladies man for years, the Nigerian superstar finally went off the market after he tied the nuptial knot with his longtime partner, and mother of his twins, Chioma Rowland. In 2023 Davido surprised fans with the revelation of his marriage during an interview with content creator Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori. While reflecting on his time away from the spotlight, he stated, “I’m married. A lot of different things…”

The announcement wasn’t entirely unexpected. In 2022, hints about a possible wedding surfaced on social media through a video posted by a pastor close to Davido. Other photot and videos of the alleged marriage introduction also resurfaced

Since then, the couple have since showcased love for each other online and off, Davido has continued to speak highly of his wife and recently showered praises on her in a heartfelt message on her birthday.

 

10.  In Texas, a day is dedicated to him

In 2023, the City of Houston, Texas, declared July 7th “Davido Day” in his honour. This recognition came from Mayor Sylvester Turner, who acknowledged Davido’s immense contribution to music with a formal proclamation.

This wasn’t the first time a major U.S. city honored an Afrobeats artist. In 2019, Wizkid received a similar tribute in Minneapolis after becoming the first African artist to sell out a venue there.

Davido, however, earned his “Davido Day” following a sold-out performance at Houston’s iconic Toyota Center.

This special day adds another layer to Davido’s impressive collection of accolades.

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