Davido rejects ‘western sounds’ in new music

Davido Signals Return to His African Roots in Upcoming Music Era

Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Davido has revealed plans to realign his sound with his African roots as he enters a new phase of his career.

The award-winning artist made this known during a recent appearance on the Official UK Afrobeats Chart Show hosted by Eddie Kadi on BBC Radio 1Xtra.

A Shift After Global Success

Reflecting on his journey so far, Davido emphasized that he has already achieved significant global milestones, including sold-out arenas and multiple Grammy recognitions.

“This part of my career, I have performed everywhere, sold out every arena, I have been to three Grammys in the last three years. The music that is coming next is very Davido, it is very African. We have done it so I am not really looking to really do Western sounds.”

With these accomplishments behind him, the singer expressed a sense of fulfillment, noting that he is no longer motivated by the pursuit of Western validation. Instead, his focus is now on authenticity—creating music that fully reflects his Nigerian and African identity.

Strong Influence Across Africa

Davido also highlighted his remarkable popularity in South Africa, stating that a large percentage of the population connects with his music.

According to him, this strong fanbase is the result of consistent engagement with the South African music scene, including frequent collaborations with local artists.

“I remember when I had the Number 1 song on radio in South Africa, and for you as an Afrobeats artiste to get a No. 1 song in SA… cause if you look at the top songs there, it’s American & South African music.”

This cross-cultural influence further reinforces his commitment to representing African sounds on a global stage.

“Davido and Friends” Festival Announcement

In addition to his musical direction, Davido recently announced his first-ever UK festival, titled “Davido and Friends.”

The event is set to take place on August 14, 2026, at the iconic Crystal Palace Bowl in London. It is expected to serve as a major celebration of Afrobeats and African music culture on an international stage.

What to Expect Next

While no official release date has been confirmed for his upcoming project, anticipation continues to build among fans. With Davido doubling down on his roots, listeners can expect a sound that is unapologetically African—authentic, vibrant, and deeply connected to his heritage.

As the next chapter unfolds, Davido appears set to redefine his artistry, not by chasing global trends, but by amplifying the culture that made him a star.