Davido and the ‘Goliaths’

Like the biblical story of David and Goliath, Afrobeats icon Davido (David Adeleke) has consistently triumphed over challenges, using them as stepping stones to solidify his legacy. While some critics may argue that he doesn’t possess the finest vocal range, Davido has mastered the art of navigating the ever-demanding creative industry, staying ahead with creativity. His latest release, ‘Fund’, featuring Odumodublvck and Chike, is more than just a song—it’s a declaration of intent and the perfect forerunner for his highly anticipated album, 5ive.

Davido’s journey has been a testament to resilience. From criticisms of his vocal prowess, and affluent background to the relentless pressure of living up to his reputation, he has faced and conquered numerous hurdles. The buzz surrounding Wizkid’s latest album, ‘Morayo’ a deeply personal tribute to his late mother Morayo Balogun, fueled the ever-present comparisons between BigWiz and Davido. The album is an intimate expression of love and loss, delivered with Wizkid’s signature finesse, so it’s no surprise it has dominated the charts.

While Wizkid’s success temporarily painted Davido as overshadowed, he chose not to react defensively. Instead, he channeled his energy into Fund, a track that proves his ability to stay relevant and maintain his crown amid heightened expectations and social pressures.

Unstoppable

Davido thrives on his intuitive grasp of market dynamics, nimble response, and ability to evolve. With Fund, he not only matches the cultural depth of Wizkid’s standout tracks but also crafts a narrative uniquely his own. Davido’s intro in his new song ‘Fund’, a homage to Brenda Fassie’s iconic Vulindlela, strikes a chord with a pan-African audience and reaffirms Davido’s ability to bridge cultures and generations.

A closer listen to the intro reveals Davido’s sharp market intelligence, as it appears to strategically counter Wizkid’s use of a Fuji legend’s performance at his mother’s burial, featured in Trouble Mind on his album. While Wizkid’s approach deeply resonates with the Nigerian audience, Davido’s choice broadens the appeal, extending his reach across Africa and beyond.

The inclusion of Odumodublvck, who faced criticism for his absence from Wizkid’s album, adds another layer of strategy and social commentary to the mix. By featuring him, Davido shows a keen understanding of the power of collaboration, offering a message of inclusivity and solidarity within the Afrobeats ecosystem.

Adding to the richness of Fund is Chike, whose soulful vocals bring a layer of depth and emotional resonance to the track. Known for his ability to effortlessly weave heartfelt lyrics with captivating melodies, Chike’s contribution elevates the song, offering a balance to the energetic delivery of Odumodublvck and Davido’s commanding presence.

As the lead single from his upcoming album, 5ive, Fund is a tantalising glimpse of what’s to come. The track sets the tone for an album poised to sustain and perhaps even elevate the momentum Davido has carefully built. If Fund is any indication, 5ive promises a mix of cultural depth, strategic collaborations, and the boldness that has always defined Davido’s artistry. This project could very well cement his place at the apex of the Afrobeats scene, silencing doubters and further broadening his global reach.

The ‘Goliaths’