Davido Credits Don Jazzy and D’banj for Inspiring His Music Career
In a candid interview on Streetz Studio with host Et Cali, Nigerian music sensation Davido revealed that legendary artists Don Jazzy and D’banj played a pivotal role in shaping his decision to pursue music.
Davido recounted a life-changing experience as a 14-year-old growing up in Atlanta, Georgia. Acting as a host to the Nigerian stars, he vividly remembers picking up Don Jazzy and D’banj from the airport, chauffeuring them around, and witnessing their lavish lifestyle. One standout moment was watching them spend over $20,000 in a nightclub, a scene that left a lasting impression on the young future star.
“That experience opened my eyes to what was possible. It was the first time I saw Nigerians living like that,” Davido shared. Inspired by their superstar lifestyle, he made a bold decision to drop out of school and move back to Lagos to chase his musical dreams.
D’banj: A Global Trailblazer
In earlier interviews, Davido has expressed his admiration for D’banj, calling him his first introduction to a Nigerian artist with global appeal. D’banj’s massive success, particularly with the international hit Oliver Twist, showcased the potential of Afrobeats on the global stage. The song’s crossover appeal remains a hallmark of African music’s rise in popularity worldwide.
“D’banj showed us that Nigerian music could go international,” Davido said, describing the hitmaker as a significant inspiration.
From Inspired Teen to Global Superstar
Fast forward over a decade, and Davido himself has become one of Africa’s most successful artists. With countless hits and collaborations to his name, he has solidified his place as a global icon. His dedication has earned him four Grammy nominations and widespread acclaim for his contributions to the Afrobeats genre.
As 2024 winds down, Davido is preparing to release a much-anticipated track featuring Odumodublvck and Chike, paving the way for his next album, scheduled for 2025.
