Davido, the Nigerian Afrobeat sensation, recently revealed the intriguing backstory behind the creation of his latest album, 5ive, and the near-exclusion of a song that has since become a fan favorite – “With You,” a collaboration with fellow Nigerian artist, Omah Lay. In an interview with Emmy Award-winning host Rocsi Diaz, Davido confessed that “With You” was almost removed from the album’s final tracklist, a decision he now considers a near-misstep. He expressed immense relief and gratitude that the track ultimately made the cut, describing it as a “true African classic” and acknowledging Omah Lay’s significant contribution to the song’s captivating quality. The revelation highlights the sometimes-serendipitous nature of creative processes and the delicate balance involved in curating a cohesive and impactful album.
The near-exclusion of “With You” underscores the complex decision-making that goes into album curation. Artists often grapple with balancing their artistic vision, commercial considerations, and the potential reception of individual tracks. While some songs might resonate deeply with the artist, they may not fit seamlessly into the overall narrative or flow of the album. In other cases, as with “With You,” a track’s potential might not be immediately apparent, requiring a leap of faith or a change of heart to recognize its value and include it in the final project. Davido’s initial hesitation and subsequent realization of the song’s significance demonstrate the evolving nature of an artist’s perspective throughout the creative journey.
Davido’s comments about “With You” further illuminate the collaborative spirit that fuels the vibrant Afrobeat scene. The song’s success is a testament to the synergy between Davido and Omah Lay, two of Nigeria’s leading musical talents. Their combined artistic prowess, evident in the song’s infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics, has resonated deeply with audiences, contributing to its widespread acclaim. The collaborative nature of “With You” also exemplifies the broader trend of cross-artist collaborations within the Afrobeat genre, enriching the musical landscape and fostering a sense of community among artists.
Beyond the success of 5ive and the individual tracks like “With You,” Davido’s interview also offered a glimpse into his ambitious future plans. He revealed his vision to create the world’s largest African music festival, a monumental undertaking aimed at showcasing the richness and diversity of African music on a global platform. This ambition reflects Davido’s commitment to elevating African music and amplifying its reach to a wider international audience. Such a festival has the potential to become a landmark event, celebrating African artistry and fostering cross-cultural exchange.
The proposed festival aligns with the increasing global recognition and appreciation of African music. Afrobeat, in particular, has transcended geographical boundaries, captivating audiences worldwide with its infectious rhythms, vibrant energy, and socially conscious lyrics. Davido’s envisioned festival would not only showcase established artists but also provide a platform for emerging talent, further propelling the growth and evolution of African music. This initiative has the potential to become a pivotal moment in the global music scene, solidifying Africa’s position as a major force in the industry.
By conceptualizing and potentially realizing such a grand-scale festival, Davido is not only demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit but also solidifying his role as a cultural ambassador for African music. His dedication to showcasing African talent on a global stage reflects a broader movement within the music industry to embrace diversity and celebrate the unique artistic contributions from different parts of the world. Davido’s vision has the potential to reshape the global music landscape, creating a more inclusive and representative platform for diverse musical expressions. The success of 5ive and the positive reception of “With You” further solidify his position as a leading figure in the Afrobeat movement and underscore his capacity to achieve his ambitious vision for the future of African music on the world stage.
