Why My Father Bought Out My First Music Contract – Davido

… A Turning Point In Davido’s Career

LAGOS, NIGERIA – Nigerian Afrobeat star David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, has shed light on the story behind his first official music contract.

The revelation came after Entertainment Talent Manager Tosin Ashafa shared details about the early stages of Davido’s music career.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Tosin Ashafa reminisced about signing Davido to his first music deal under Black Diamond Promotions, alongside Cecil Hammond and another silent partner.

“I signed @davido to his 1st official contract under Black Diamond Promotions with Cecil Hammond/another silent partner. We hired @GodwinTom to manage him. Dr. Adeleke realized David was really serious with pushing his music without him, reached out to us, and bought us out,” Ashafa wrote.

Davido responded to the post, recalling how his father, Dr. Deji Adeleke, recognized his commitment to music and decided to buy out the contract.

“Lmao I remember this day. No, I signed the contract in 2011 … was a good contract, not bad! But daddy wanted me to have 100 percent of whatever I was doing! Especially after I played him the first cut of the Dami Duro video in his office! He knew it was game time!!!” Davido shared.

The Afrobeat star acknowledged the significance of the deal and expressed gratitude to Ashafa and the team: “So much respect to you guys for allowing me walk!! Just know you were part of something that turned out to be phenomenal!!”

This moment marked a critical turning point for Davido, laying the groundwork for his meteoric rise in the music industry. With his father’s financial backing and creative control over his work, Davido released the hit single Dami Duro, a song that solidified his position as a leading figure in the Afrobeat genre.

Today, Davido is celebrated not only for his chart-topping hits but also for his influence on the global music scene. His journey from a determined young artist to an international icon underscores the importance of persistence, belief in one’s vision, and the support of those who recognize potential.

From the foundation set by that first contract, Davido’s career continues to inspire a new generation of African musicians and fans worldwide.