These are why Davido is the most influential afrobeat artiste
It is not just about how long Davido has been in the music industry; it is also about the impact he has had.
From the release of his first song, “Back When,” until the present, he has consistently released major hits back-to-back, set and broken records, and received a long list of accolades from all over the world.
10 of One of Africa’s Most Influential Stars’ Most Popular Statements!
E Choke!
”E choke!” Followed quickly by “who dey breeeeeetttt?” is one of Davido’s most current slang phrases and one of the most popular in Nigerian history; American rapper Drake was heard using it.
“E Choke” in a video with Davido. The slang has gone viral and crossed industries and geographical locations, so much so that it now has its own Twitter emoji. Beat that!
“We Rise by Lifting Others”
Although it was not his original statement, Davido stated during his acceptance speech at the 2018 Headies Awards that he lives his life by the proverb “We rise by lifting others.” He also encouraged other artists to help others as it is the best way to leave a lasting impression and that one need not have a lot of money to do so.. “….. anything wey una fit do for people, do am. E go no cost you anything.”
“FEM”
Is slang which translates to “shut up” in Pidgin.
In September 2020, when Davido released what would end up being one of his most successful songs in recent memory, he made a significant statement by doing so.
The gritty song served as the rallying cry for the EndSARS demonstrations that took place all throughout Nigeria in 2020.
“I Talk Am, I Do Am”
Davido said years back that he would be here for a long time and he has proven time and time again that he is a man of his word who knows how to back his promises with action.
“In this life, have money o, else you will suffer”
Word on the street from Davido, and there are no lies here. Without money, life can be quite unbearable.
“See Gobe!”
Also one of his tracks, “see gobe” has become an exclamation in Nigeria, especially when relating to awe or expressing shock at some trouble.
“My Papa Get Money, Na My Fault?”
For the longest time, Davido has had to deal with trolls and criticism from people attributing his career success to his father’s wealth and not hard work.
Having fought the perception all through his career, the artiste is embracing his fortunes and asking the haters “my papa get money, na my fault?”
“Make That Call.”
“Make that call. Send that text. Forgive that person. Tell them you miss them. Let go of that grudge. Show more kindness.
Don’t take it for granted because tomorrow isn’t promised.”
“Negativity goes farther than positivity.”
For someone in the spotlight, we’re sure this came from a deep place.
“If you can’t be king, build a king”
Word for the wise! The good news is, Davido is a king and from Mayorkun to Peruzzi, Dremo and more, we can see that Davido is raising other kings in his industry and he’s doing a great job at it.
We leave you with these powerful words from OBO which was said in an interview with the Guardian UK “Sometimes this pressure to make music that will be popular elsewhere makes you do things differently, but really you have to make the world come to you.
My biggest single in the US is Fall, which I did by myself, not with all the features of US artists.
It’s local, it’s Nigeria.
You realise that’s what people in different parts of the world appreciate: being yourself.”