As Afro beats continues to dominate the global soundscape, Nigerian music icon Davido says it's just one part of a larger cultural wave. Speaking in Paris ahead of his upcoming album release, the 32-year-old artist highlighted how Nigerian influence is now expanding beyond music into film, fashion, and cuisine.

“We're very popular, not only in music,” said Davido, born David Adedeji Adeleke. “It's a full cultural moment for Nigeria.”

With over eight million monthly listeners, including fans as notable as Britain’s King Charles, Davido stands at the forefront of Afrobeat's’ global rise. But he insists that his success is rooted in more than just catchy rhythms—it's about representing a vibrant, resilient continent.

Set to release his new album “5ive”, Davido is confident the record will connect with audiences worldwide. “We have music for the French, the Caribbean, the Americans, Africans—everybody. It’s a full, global package album,” he said.

Though raised in Atlanta, the Nigerian-American star remains closely tied to his heritage. He recalls a childhood surrounded by African music—playing during car rides, family parties, and at home. A cousin introduced him to studio life, and by age 16, he was producing and mixing his own tracks, inspired by artists like P-Square and Michael Jackson.

Now, as Afrobeat gains mainstream appeal, Davido welcomes the influence it’s having on global music—even if it means American artists borrowing from the sound. “It’s a privilege for another culture to try to imitate what you’re doing,” he said. “Music is a universal language.”

Still, Davido believes Africa’s future lies in the hands of those who remain on the continent. “Every kid in Africa dreams of going to America. That’s okay. But don’t leave your people and go there,” he said, addressing the growing trend of “japa”—a Yoruba term for emigrating in search of better opportunities abroad.

His message comes at a time when Nigerians are battling the country's worst economic downturn in decades. Despite this, Davido remains optimistic. “Nigeria is a very rich country with so much talent, so much grace, so much opportunity,” he said.

Though he’s been asked why Nigerian musicians don’t often sing about the nation’s struggles, Davido explained: “That’s not the type of music my people would really like to hear. I have sung about it in the past, but I’m more vocal about it in Africa than in America.”

As he gears up for a world tour with stops in Paris, London, New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles, Davido reflects on how far African music has come.

“African music has changed the narrative of how Africans are looked at around the world,” he said. And with his sights set on the global stage, Davido is determined to keep that momentum going—without losing sight of home.