Davido, born David Adedeji Adeleke, is a Nigerian-American singer, songwriter, record producer, and one of Africa’s most influential artists. His rise to fame reshaped the global Afrobeats sound, earning him multiple awards, international collaborations, and a massive worldwide following. Beyond music, Davido is a philanthropist, businessman, and cultural ambassador whose influence extends across Africa, America, and the global music industry.

This biography covers his early life, family heritage, education, relationships, achievements, and journey toward becoming one of the biggest names in contemporary African music.

Davido is widely recognized as a pioneer of modern Afrobeats and one of the most streamed African artists in history. Known for his energetic performances, distinctive voice, and hit songs like “Fall,” “If,” “Aye,” “Timeless,” “Dami Duro,” and “Unavailable,” the superstar has built a career that bridges Africa and the global music scene.

His impact is undeniable — from selling out arenas to shaping pop culture, launching successful artists under his record label, and giving back to the community. As one of the most followed African celebrities on social media, Davido continues to inspire millions with his artistry, generosity, and resilience.

Highlights of Davido Biography

Full Name: David Adedeji Adeleke
Stage Name: Davido / OBO / 001
Date of Birth: November 21, 1992
Age: 33 years old (as of 2025)
State of Origin: Osun State
Nationality: Nigerian-American
Profession: Singer, Songwriter, Producer
Record Label: DMW (Davido Music Worldwide)
Net Worth: Estimated $30 million – $50 million
Wife: Chioma Rowland
Children: Several (including his late son, Ifeanyi)
Education: Babcock University (Business Administration)
Known For: Hit songs, sold-out shows, philanthropy, Afrobeats influence

Early Life

David Adedeji Adeleke was born on November 21, 1992, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, into a wealthy and influential Nigerian family. His father, Adedeji Adeleke, is a billionaire businessman and founder of Adeleke University, while his mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke, was a university lecturer and philanthropist before her passing in 2003.

Davido grew up between Atlanta and Lagos, splitting his childhood between two countries. This multicultural upbringing shaped his worldview, giving him confidence, exposure, and a deep connection to both American and Nigerian cultures.

Despite being born into wealth, Davido has often stated that he was taught responsibility and hard work from an early age. Losing his mother at age 10 profoundly impacted him, and he has repeatedly credited her with inspiring his emotional depth and generosity.

Education

Davido attended elite schools in Lagos before returning to the United States for part of his high school education. He later enrolled at Oakwood University in Alabama to study Business Administration.

While at Oakwood, Davido developed a strong interest in music production. He started making beats, recording songs, and collaborating with campus musicians.

However, his growing passion for music conflicted with his academic commitments, eventually leading him to drop out and fully pursue his entertainment career.

After gaining fame, Davido returned to Nigeria to satisfy his father’s wish for a degree. He enrolled at Babcock University, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Music, after a special department was created partly to support his unique career schedule.

Family Background

Davido comes from the prominent Adeleke family of Osun State — a family deeply rooted in business, politics, and philanthropy.

Father

Adedeji Adeleke is one of Nigeria’s most successful businessmen, with interests in banking, real estate, education, and agriculture.

Mother

Dr. Veronica Adeleke was known for her kindness, contributions to education, and love for music — qualities Davido inherited.

Siblings

Davido has several siblings, including his sister Sharon and brother Adewale, both of whom are involved in business and entertainment.

Family plays a significant role in his life. Despite his fame, Davido remains close to his relatives and often highlights their influence on his journey.

Career / Professional Journey

1. Early Beginnings

Davido began his professional music journey while studying in the U.S. He started as a music producer, creating beats for other artists before eventually recording his own vocals.

In 2011, he moved back to Nigeria to join the fast-rising Afrobeats movement. His sound — a blend of Afrobeats, pop, and American influence — immediately set him apart.

2. Breakthrough with “Dami Duro”

Davido released “Dami Duro” in 2011, and it became an instant national anthem. The song catapulted him to fame, earning him massive airplay and establishing him as one of Nigeria’s brightest young talents.

3. Hit Albums & Singles

Davido has released several successful projects, including:

Omo Baba Olowo (2012)
A Good Time (2019)
A Better Time (2020)
Timeless (2023)

Some of his most famous songs include:

Fall
If
FIA
Aye
Risky
Unavailable
Assurance

Many of his tracks achieved global charting success and multi-million streams, cementing him as an African music icon.

4. Record Label – DMW

Davido founded DMW (Davido Music Worldwide), one of Nigeria’s most successful labels. Under DMW, he has nurtured artists such as:

Mayorkun
Dremo
Peruzzi
Liya

His leadership helped shape the careers of many young artists.

5. International Achievements

Davido has collaborated with global stars, including:

Chris Brown
Nicki Minaj
Popcaan
Summer Walker
Lil Baby
Young Thug

He has performed on major world stages, won several international awards, and received multiple global recognitions.

6. Philanthropy

Davido is known for his generosity. He donates to orphanages, pays medical bills for fans, supports students with tuition fees, and uses his platform to help the less privileged.

In 2021, for his birthday, he raised millions from friends and fans — and donated the entire amount to orphanages across Nigeria.

Net Worth & Lifestyle

Davido’s estimated net worth ranges from $30 million to $50 million, making him one of the richest artists in Africa.

His wealth comes from:

Music sales and streams
Sold-out concerts
Endorsements (including major telecom companies and global brands)
Real estate
Record label earnings
Business ventures
Luxury shows and appearances

He owns luxury cars, houses in Lekki and Atlanta, and a private jet through his family.

Wife & Personal Life

Davido is married to Chioma Avril Rowland, popularly known as Chef Chi. Their relationship gained public attention in 2018 after he featured her in the hit song “Assurance.”

They share children together and have navigated both joyous moments and heartbreaking losses, including the tragic passing of their son Ifeanyi.

Despite the challenges, Davido and Chioma remain a strong couple, often admired for their resilience and bond.

Davido has other children from previous relationships and is known to be a supportive and involved father.

Conclusion

Davido’s biography is a journey of passion, resilience, and global impact. From an Atlanta-born child of privilege to one of Africa’s greatest musicians, he has built a legacy defined by talent, hard work, and philanthropy. His influence transcends music, shaping fashion, culture, business, and youth empowerment across Africa.

With each new project, Davido continues to elevate the Afrobeats genre on the world stage, solidifying his position as one of the most important figures in modern African entertainment.

FAQs About Davido

1. What is Davido’s net worth?

Davido’s net worth is estimated between $30 million and $50 million.

2. How old is Davido?

Davido is 33 years old (born November 21, 1992).

3. Who is Davido’s wife?

Davido is married to Chioma Avril Rowland.

4. What did Davido study?

He studied Music at Babcock University.

5. What state is Davido from?

He is from Osun State, Nigeria.

6. What is Davido known for?

He is known for hit songs, international achievements, philanthropy, and Afrobeats influence.

7. How did Davido become famous?

He rose to fame after releasing “Dami Duro” in 2011.

Davido Biography: Net Worth, Age, Wife, Education, Family, Career & Early Life