By Abigail Philip David
Nigerian music icon David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, recently opened up about the challenges he faced at the beginning of his music career, revealing that many doubted his potential.
In an interview with Atlanta-based hip-hop radio station Streetz94.5, Davido shared how his family and manager were his pillars of support during those tough times.
“When I first started, it was literally my family and my manager who believed in me,” he said. “Some friends from school believed too, but a lot of people didn’t. The friends I’ve made now are mostly people I met along the way.”
The singer also credited his father’s religious values for helping him navigate life’s challenges. “My dad is very successful, but he’s also an elder in the church. I grew up in the Seventh-day Adventist Church and even attended a Christian college,” he explained.
Davido recounted a moment of frustration when he questioned why bad things happen to good people. He recalled a conversation with his father during that period:
“I was angry about some things happening in my life and asked, ‘Why do bad things happen to good people?’ My dad told me, ‘You can’t question God, ever!’ At first, I didn’t understand, but over time, it made sense.”
He reflected on the blessings that followed, including the birth of his twins, a landmark album release, and his first Grammy nominations. “It started to make sense—He’s listening. For anyone hearing my story and going through tough times, just know that God has your back,” Davido said.
The artist emphasized the importance of having a strong support system. “It’s very easy to give up, but having good people around you is crucial. Don’t play with family; they’re the ones who will always be there for you.”
Davido, who tragically lost his son Ifeanyi in October 2022, welcomed twins—a boy and a girl—with his wife, Chioma, in October 2023, marking a joyful new chapter in their lives.
