“From day one, people always had something to say,” he divulges, offering me a glimpse into his years-long quest to define himself on his own terms. “‘He’s only here ‘cause of his dad.’ ‘He’s not serious.’ ‘He won’t last.’ But I’ve always believed in myself, and more than anything, I knew the music would speak louder than the noise. I’ve faced a lot of battles, not just in music but in life. People don’t always see the behind-the-scenes, but I’ve been through things that would break most people. And I’m still here, still rising. That’s God, that’s grace, that’s hard work. Now, 14 years in, I won’t say I don’t still fight — but it’s different now. I’ve earned my place. I’ve built a legacy. I’m not trying to prove anything anymore, I’m just walking in my purpose.”
Davido not only makes sure to affirm his long-standing career, but also to ensure its continuation by reflecting the changing face of the Afrobeats scene. As such, he turns himself into a symbol of Afrobeats’ newfound international resonance, calling on global stars to rein in his brand new era. Victoria Monét makes her Afrobeats debut through ‘Offa Me’, an uncomplicated Afropop love song where the GRAMMY-winning R&B star carries the hook. Strengthening his steady relationship with Jamaica, which has seen him put forth successful collaborations with dancehall stars like Popcaan and Dexta Daps, he calls upon Shenseea and 450 on ‘R&B,’ and on YG Marley with ‘Awuke’. ‘5ive’ reprises the iconic Davido-Musa Keys combination that began with ‘Unavailable’, calling the South African powerhouse back as a vocalist and producer on the irresistible amapiano hit ‘Holy Water’. And with delectable features from Dadju, Tayc, and Becky G, the album ensures the Francophone and Latin markets feel the weight of Davido in motion.
His assumption of the role of Afrobeats’ flagbearer speaks to the overall slant of this album — a project which, in the midst of high-spirited party anthems, sees Davido take on an incredible level of responsibility. Reflecting his regal positioning on the album’s cover, where he stands amidst multicolored masquerades dressed in pristine white, ‘5ive’ represents Davido’s understanding that he is Afrobeats royalty, and that with such great power comes equal responsibility.
- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
