DistantNews
Support us
๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Culture & Society

VIDEO: Davido recalls struggling financially after leaving home

From The Punch · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Afrobeats star Davido revealed he faced financial struggles early in his music career, despite his wealthy background.
  • He explained that his song "Back When" was inspired by a period of being broke after leaving home to pursue music against his father's wishes.
  • Davido has since become a highly successful artist with numerous accolades.

Afrobeats superstar Davido, born David Adeleke, has shared details of his early career struggles, revealing a period of significant financial hardship despite his upbringing in a wealthy family. The singer disclosed that his journey in music began with him being broke, a stark contrast to the affluent lifestyle associated with his father, billionaire businessman Deji Adeleke.

During a recent episode of the Uncut Podcast, Davido explained that his decision to pursue music over education, against his father's wishes, led him to leave home. This departure meant he no longer had access to the financial comforts he was accustomed to. He recounted how his debut single, "Back When," which features lyrics about being broke and rejected, was directly inspired by this personal experience.

"My song Back When was inspired by a true experience. There was a time I was broke," Davido stated during the podcast. He contrasted his situation with that of his friends, who came from wealthy families and lived lavishly, while he found himself without money. This period marked a significant challenge as he navigated the early stages of his music career.

Despite these initial difficulties, Davido has since established himself as one of Africa's most successful and influential Afrobeats artists. His career, spanning over a decade, is marked by multiple international awards, collaborations with global stars, and a significant impact on the music industry.

My song Back When was inspired by a true experience. There was a time I was broke. I had rich friends with rich parents who lived in mansions in Ikoyi with police escorts. But I had no money.

โ€” DavidoThe singer explained the personal inspiration behind his debut single and his early financial difficulties.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.