Davido Opens Up About His Challenges Before Rising to Afrobeats Fame


(Davido. Photo by Punch News)

Grammy-nominated Afrobeats superstar Davido recently opened up about experiencing financial struggles in his early career, despite coming from a wealthy background.

During a viral podcast appearance, the “Unavailable” hitmaker revealed how his breakout single “Back When”—a song about financial hardship and societal rejection—was inspired by real-life struggles after leaving his billionaire father’s home.

“I chose music against my dad’s wishes,” Davido explained. “There was a time my peers in Ikoyi lived in mansions with security, while I was hustling to pay studio bills.”

The singer described how rejecting his father’s path to pursue music meant forfeiting the financial comforts his affluent family typically provided, leading to genuine struggles before his eventual breakthrough.

Today, Davido stands as one of Africa’s most celebrated musical exports, with a career spanning over a decade that includes global collaborations, sold-out international tours, and multiple record-breaking achievements.