History of Davido in Timeline

Davido, born David Adedeji Adeleke, is a highly influential Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer. He is widely recognized as a leading figure in the Afrobeats music scene and has played a pivotal role, along with artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid, in bringing the genre to international prominence.

1957: Birth of Adedeji Adeleke

Adedeji Adeleke, Davido's father, was born in 1957.

1963: Birth of Vero Adeleke

Vero Adeleke, Davido's mother, was born in 1963.

November 21, 1992: Birth of David Adedeji Adeleke

Davido, whose real name is David Adedeji Adeleke, was born on November 21, 1992.

2003: Death of Vero Adeleke

Vero Adeleke, Davido's mother, passed away in 2003.

May 7, 2011: Release of "Back When," the Lead Single from "Omo Baba Olowo"

The Naeto C-assisted track "Back When" was released as the lead single from Davido's debut album, "Omo Baba Olowo," on May 7, 2011. The song, produced in London, gained significant airplay.

May 9, 2011: Release of "Back When" Music Video

The music video for "Back When," directed by Clarence Peters, was released on YouTube on May 9, 2011, further promoting the single and showcasing Davido's visual style.

October 30, 2011: Release of "Dami Duro"

Davido released "Dami Duro," the second single from his debut album, on October 30, 2011. The song, produced by Davido and Shizzi, became a significant hit despite being leaked before its official release.

2011: Start of Work on Debut Album, "Omo Baba Olowo"

Davido began working on his debut studio album, "Omo Baba Olowo," in 2011, marking the beginning of his journey towards creating a full-length musical project.

2011: Return to Nigeria and Decision to Honor His Father's Wish

In 2011, Davido made a significant decision to return to Nigeria and honor his father's request by enrolling at Babcock University. This decision reflected his respect for his family and his commitment to pursuing higher education.

January 8, 2012: Release of "Dami Duro" Music Video

The music video for "Dami Duro" was released on January 8, 2012, coinciding with the Occupy Nigeria protests, which added a layer of social and political relevance to the song's reception.

January 25, 2012: Release of "Ekuro"

Davido released "Ekuro," the third single from "Omo Baba Olowo," on January 25, 2012. The song's music video, directed by Antwan Smith, was shot in Miami.

April 6, 2012: MTN Endorsement Deal

On April 6, 2012, Nigerian Entertainment Today reported Davido's ₦30 million endorsement deal with MTN. He became the face of MTN Pulse, a marketing campaign targeted at Nigerian youth.

May 6, 2012: Release of "Overseas"

"Overseas," the fourth single from Davido's debut album, was released on May 6, 2012, after an unfinished version of the song was leaked.

September 28, 2012: Release of "All of You"

Davido released "All of You," the fifth single from "Omo Baba Olowo," on September 28, 2012. The song was produced by GospelOnDeBeatz, whom Davido met serendipitously at a mall.

2012: Davido's Breakthrough with "Dami Duro" and Debut Album

In 2012, Davido achieved significant success with his hit single "Dami Duro," which propelled him to fame. This same year, he released his debut studio album, "Omo Baba Olowo," and won the Next Rated award at The Headies.

February 25, 2013: Release of "Gobe"

Davido released "Gobe" on February 25, 2013. Produced by Shizzi, the song was well-received and ranked second on Premium Times' list of the top 10 songs of 2013.

May 13, 2013: Release of "One of a Kind"

Davido released "One of a Kind" on May 13, 2013. The song, also produced by Shizzi, featured a music video directed by Tebza of Godfather Productions that celebrated African culture and music.

August 13, 2013: Release of "Skelewu"

Davido released "Skelewu" on August 13, 2013. The song became a hit and ranked fifth on Premium Times' list of the top 10 songs of 2013.

August 18, 2013: Promotion of "Skelewu" with Dance Video and Competition

To promote "Skelewu," Davido uploaded an instructional dance video to YouTube on August 18, 2013, and announced a "Skelewu" dance competition, engaging fans and further popularizing the song.

October 15, 2013: Release of the First Music Video for "Skelewu"

The first music video for "Skelewu," directed by Sesan, was released on October 15, 2013. However, its release was controversial, with Davido claiming it was unauthorized, leading to disagreements with the director.

October 2013: Release of the Official Music Video for "Skelewu"

Following the controversy with the first video, Davido released an official music video for "Skelewu" in October 2013, directed by UK-based director Moe Musa.

October 24, 2013: Guinness Endorsement Deal and Performance

On October 24, 2013, Pulse Nigeria reported that Davido had signed an endorsement deal with Guinness Nigeria. As part of the deal, he performed at the Guinness World of More Concert alongside other prominent artists such as P-Square, D'banj, Wizkid, Ice Prince, Burna Boy, Olamide, Phyno, Chidinma, Waje, and Tiwa Savage.

December 2013: Collaboration with Mafikizolo

Davido met Mafikizolo at MTN Nigeria's Elite Night event in December 2013, which led to their future collaboration on "Tchelete (Goodlife)".

2013: Release of Hit Singles "Gobe" and "One of a Kind"

Davido continued his musical success in 2013 by releasing two popular singles, "Gobe" and "One of a Kind."

2013: "Omo Baba Olowo" Recognition and Awards

Davido's debut album, "Omo Baba Olowo," garnered recognition and awards in 2013. It won Best R&B/Pop Album at The Headies and received nominations for Album of the Year at both The Headies and the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

February 1, 2014: "Aye" Release

On February 1, 2014, Davido released the single "Aye", produced by T-Spize.

February 7, 2014: "Aye" Music Video Release

The music video for "Aye", directed by Clarence Peters, was released on February 7, 2014. The video features Davido as a poor farmer in love with a prince's fiancé.

April 30, 2014: "Tchelete (Goodlife)" Release

On April 30, 2014, Davido's collaborative single with South African duo Mafikizolo, "Tchelete (Goodlife)", was released. Produced by Oskido and Shizzi, the song was distributed by MTN's Play and Callertunez platforms.

June 2014: "Africa Rising" Collaboration and Performance

In June 2014, Davido collaborated with Mi Casa, Lola Rae, Sarkodie, Diamond Platnumz, and Tiwa Savage on "Africa Rising", a song for DStv's campaign promoting social investment. The artists performed the song at the campaign launch ceremony in Mauritius.

June 2015: "Fans Mi" Release

Davido released the Meek Mill-assisted trap song "Fans Mi" in June 2015, after teasing fans with audio and behind-the-scenes photos.

June 2015: "The Baddest" Initial Release Plans

Davido's album "The Baddest" was initially scheduled for a June 2015 release, but was postponed.

July 2015: Graduation from Babcock University

Davido completed his education at Babcock University and graduated with a degree in music in July 2015. Notably, his father supported the establishment of a music department at the university.

2015: Release of Notable Singles, Including "Skelewu", "Aye", and "The Money"

Davido maintained a steady stream of releases in 2015, with notable singles like "Skelewu," "Aye," and "The Money" captivating audiences.

January 2016: Signing with Sony Music

In January 2016, Davido announced signing a record deal with Sony Music, a move met with mixed reactions but officially confirmed by the label.

January 2016: Signing with Sony Music and Founding DMW

In a major career move, Davido signed a record deal with Sony Music in January 2016. A few months later, he established his record label, Davido Music Worldwide (DMW).

July 2016: Signing with RCA Records and Founding of DMW

Davido founded Davido Music Worldwide (DMW) a few months after signing with Sony. In July 2016, he also signed a record deal with RCA Records.

July 2016: Signing with RCA Records and Releasing "Son of Mercy" EP

Davido further expanded his reach by signing with Sony's RCA Records in July 2016. In October of the same year, he released his five-track EP titled "Son of Mercy."

October 2016: "Son of Mercy" EP Release

In October 2016, Davido released the five-track EP "Son of Mercy", supported by singles like "Gbagbe Oshi", "How Long", and "Coolest Kid in Africa". The EP features guest appearances by Simi, Tinashe, and Nasty C.

February 17, 2017: "If" Release

On February 17, 2017, Davido released "If", produced and ghostwritten by Tekno. The song's music video, directed by Director Q, has garnered millions of views on YouTube and was certified diamond by RISA.

April 2017: Contract Renegotiation with Sony and Release of "If" and "Fall"

Seeking greater creative control, Davido renegotiated his contract with Sony in April 2017. Later that year, he released impactful singles, including "If" and "Fall," with "Fall" achieving remarkable longevity on Billboard charts.

June 2, 2017: "Fall" Release

Davido released "Fall" on June 2, 2017, which samples Kojo Funds's "Dun Talking". The song was certified platinum by RISA.

November 10, 2017: "Fia" Release

On November 10, 2017, Davido released the neo-highlife track "Fia", produced by Fresh VDM. The song addresses personal struggles and received critical praise for its lyrical content and unique sound.

March 30, 2018: "Fia" Remix Release

The Stefflon Don-assisted remix of "Fia" was released on March 30, 2018, incorporating a patois-tinged flow while retaining elements of the original.

April 30, 2018: "Assurance" Release

Davido released "Assurance" on April 30, 2018, dedicating it to his girlfriend for her 23rd birthday. The song highlights the importance of clarity and love in modern relationships.

May 2018: Infinix Mobile Endorsement Deal

Davido signed an endorsement deal with Infinix Mobile, a Hong Kong-based smartphone manufacturer, in May 2018.

September 2018: Performances at Made in America Festival and "The Locked Up Tour"

After completing "The Locked Up Tour", Davido performed at the Made in America Festival alongside Meek Mill, Post Malone, and Fat Joe in September 2018.

2018: "If" Awards and Recognition

"If" won Best Pop Single and Song of the Year at The Headies in 2018 and was critically acclaimed for its unique sound and impactful lyrics.

2018: Popcaan Collaboration

In 2018, Davido collaborated with Jamaican singer Popcaan on Popcaan's single "Dun Rich." This collaboration eventually led to Popcaan's appearance on Davido's track "Risky" in 2019.

2018: Wizkid's O2 Arena Performance

Wizkid was the first solo African artist to sell out The O2 Arena in London in 2018, preceding Davido's performance in 2019.

January 2019: "Fall" Shazam Success

"Fall" was one of the 100 most-Shazam-searched singles in America in January 2019, and a top-10 record on Shazam in New York.

January 2019: Sold-Out Performance at The O2 Arena

In January 2019, Davido became the first solo African artist to sell out The O2 Arena in London since Wizkid's performance in 2018. He was introduced by Idris Elba and backed by The Compozers.

February 2019: "Fall" Billboard Chart Record

In February 2019, "Fall" became the longest-charting Nigerian pop song in Billboard history.

July 26, 2019: "Blow My Mind" Release

On July 26, 2019, Davido dropped the Shizzi-produced track "Blow My Mind," featuring Chris Brown. Initially planned as the album's lead single, the song quickly gained traction.

September 2019: "A Good Time" Album Announcement

In September 2019, Davido hosted an event in Lagos to reveal the title of his upcoming album, "A Good Time." During the event, he gave attendees a sneak peek by sharing excerpts from four tracks on the album.

October 23, 2019: "Risky" Release

On October 23, 2019, Davido released "Risky," a collaborative track with Jamaican artist Popcaan. The song's music video, a tribute to the series "Top Boy," was directed by Meji Alabi.

November 2019: Release of Second Studio Album, "A Good Time"

Davido delighted fans with the release of his second studio album, "A Good Time," in November 2019, featuring previously released hits and new tracks.

November 22, 2019: "A Good Time" Album Release

On November 22, 2019, Davido launched his second studio album, "A Good Time." The album, recorded in Atlanta, featured a blend of Afrobeats with other genres and included popular tracks like "If," "Fall," "Assurance," "Blow My Mind," and "Risky."

2019: Recognized as One of the 100 Most Influential Africans by New African Magazine

Davido's impact extended beyond music, as New African magazine acknowledged him as one of the 100 most influential Africans in 2019.

2019: North American Tour Cancellation

In 2019, Davido canceled his scheduled North American tour due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

May 2020: Billboard Magazine Cover Story

Davido, Mr Eazi, and Tiwa Savage were featured in Billboard magazine's "Africa Now" cover story in May 2020. The artists discussed their experiences during the quarantine and the rise of Afrobeats in a video conference call interview.

July 2020: "A Good Time" Hits One Billion Streams

By July 2020, Davido's album "A Good Time" had achieved a significant milestone, surpassing one billion streams across multiple digital platforms.

July 2020: Performance on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon"

In July 2020, Davido delivered a memorable performance on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon." He treated the audience to a medley of his hit songs "D&G" and "Fall" from his "A Good Time" album.

August 28, 2020: Grammy Museum Mentorship Program

On August 28, 2020, the Grammy Museum invited Davido to be a part of their Mentorship Monday program. A few days later, he joined an Instagram Live event hosted by the museum.

September 10, 2020: "FEM" Release

On September 10, 2020, Davido released his single "FEM," produced by Dammy Twitch, alongside its music video. The video quickly gained 1.8 million YouTube views within 24 hours, setting a new record for Davido in reaching one million views the fastest. The song also topped the Nigeria TurnTable Top 50 chart in its second week, surpassing Wizkid's "Ginger."

November 13, 2020: Release of Third Studio Album, "A Better Time"

Continuing his musical journey, Davido released his third studio album, "A Better Time," on November 13, 2020.

February 2021: Featured on Time Magazine's Time 100 Next List

In recognition of his rising influence, Davido was featured on Time magazine's prestigious Time 100 Next List in February 2021.

May 2021: 1xBet Brand Ambassadorship

In May 2021, Davido took on the role of official brand ambassador for 1xBet, a sports betting company.

October 2021: Martell Brand Ambassadorship

Davido added another brand ambassadorship to his portfolio in October 2021 when he was announced as the new ambassador for Martell cognac.

November 17, 2021: Orphanage Donation

On November 17, 2021, Davido made headlines by requesting his fans and colleagues to donate one million naira to him, stating those who didn't shouldn't associate with him anymore. He raised 200 million naira, adding 50 million naira of his own, and donated the entire sum to orphanage homes across Nigeria.

December 2021: Puma Brand Ambassadorship

In December 2021, Davido secured a long-term agreement with Puma, the renowned footwear manufacturer, becoming a global brand ambassador for the company.

March 2022: "Hayya Hayya (Better Together)" Release

Davido, alongside Trinidad Cardona and Qatari singer Aisha, was featured in the single "Hayya Hayya (Better Together)" in March 2022. This track was included in the compilation album "FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Official Soundtrack."

May 2022: "Stand Strong" Release

In May 2022, Davido released his first solo track of the year, "Stand Strong," produced by Pheelz and featuring vocals from the Sunday Service Choir.

June 2022: "Timeless" Album Nearing Completion

In June 2022, Davido shared with Rolling Stone magazine that his fourth studio album, "Timeless," was nearly finished.

September 2022: A.W.A.Y Festival Announcement

Davido announced his first annual Are We African Yet (A.W.A.Y) music festival in September 2022.

October 31, 2022: Death of Davido's Son, Ifeanyi Adeleke Jr.

On October 31, 2022, tragedy struck Davido's family as his three-year-old son, Ifeanyi Adeleke Jr., drowned in a swimming pool at his father's Banana Island home. The incident prompted a police investigation, with eight domestic staff members questioned. Following the investigation, two staff members were detained while the others were released.

November 18, 2022: First Annual A.W.A.Y Festival

Davido's first annual Are We African Yet (A.W.A.Y) music festival took place on November 18, 2022, at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. The festival featured performances by various artists, including Kizz Daniel, Pheelz, Lojay, and BNXN.

March 2023: Marriage to Chioma Rowland

In March 2023, Davido publicly confirmed his marriage to Chioma Rowland.

March 21, 2023: "Timeless" Album Announcement

On March 21, 2023, Davido announced the release date for his album "Timeless." The announcement was accompanied by a theatrical trailer featuring tour footage.

March 31, 2023: Release of Fourth Studio Album, "Timeless"

Davido marked another milestone in his discography with the release of his fourth studio album, "Timeless," on March 31, 2023.

August 18, 2023: "Unavailable" Remix Release

On August 18, 2023, Davido released a remix of his song "Unavailable," this time featuring American rapper Latto.

November 2023: Three Grammy Nominations

Davido received three nominations at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards in November 2023 for his exceptional work on "Unavailable," "Feel," and his album "Timeless."

November 2023: "Fall" Music Video Milestone

The music video for "Fall", directed by Daps, surpassed 274 million views on YouTube in November 2023, becoming the most-viewed video by a Nigerian artist.

2023: "Sensational" Collaboration and Billboard Debut

Davido and Nigerian singer Lojay collaborated with Chris Brown on the song "Sensational" in 2023. The song marked both Davido and Lojay's first entry on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, debuting at number 96.