In a revealing new interview, Nigerian music icon Davido has shared his thoughts on the rise of Afrobeats, the notion of “boxing” African artists, and the evolution of his own sound. Joining the ranks of Burna Boy and Wizkid, the “If” singer speaks candidly about his journey, musical identity, and the growing influence of Afrobeats globally.
Speaking with The Beat Magazine earlier this week, Davido, whose career has spanned over a decade, emphasized the importance of unity within the African music scene. He explained how the genre has transformed from regional rhythms to a global cultural force, with Nigerian artists like him, Burna Boy, and Wizkid leading the charge.
“When you talk about Afrobeats, it’s not just about one country, it’s about the whole African continent,” Davido stated. “It’s about embracing our diversity and making sure the world knows that our sounds are as rich as any other music out there.”
The singer also expressed his frustration with the common tendency to “box” African artists into a single genre. While Afrobeats is thriving, Davido made it clear that African music is multifaceted, with influences ranging from highlife, hip-hop, and reggae to gospel and more.
“People want to categorize us, and that’s just limiting,” he said. “We’re not just one thing. Our music is diverse, and that’s something the world has to understand. Afrobeats is the umbrella, but within that, there’s so much more.”
On his own musical evolution, Davido described a shift in his sound that reflects both his personal growth and the changing dynamics of the global music scene. “I’ve always wanted to make music that resonates with people everywhere,” he explained. “But as I’ve grown, I’ve become more intentional. I’m taking my time to create music that speaks to the soul, not just to make a hit.”
Known for his chart-topping hits like “Fall” and “FIA,” Davido’s career trajectory has seen him collaborate with international stars and bring Nigerian music to the global stage. But he insists that his focus remains on African culture and authenticity.
“I’m still the same Davido, but now I’m putting more effort into telling the stories of our people, of Africa, in a way that feels honest,” he said. “It’s more about the vibe, the energy, and that African sound that people around the world are starting to embrace.”
As Afrobeats continues to solidify its place in the international music landscape, Davido’s vision for the future is clear: the genre must grow organically and celebrate African unity, while simultaneously showcasing the diversity of sounds across the continent.
With his latest projects continuing to receive global attention, it’s evident that Davido’s voice will remain central to the ongoing story of Afrobeats and he’s ready to lead the charge, breaking boundaries along the way.
source: Legit.ng