Davido, who recently completed a 53-show world tour, said he remains focused on building his legacy while continuing to evolve as an artiste.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Afrobeats singer, songwriter and music producer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has said the decision to trim down the number of people around was bringing of a change in his lifestyle.
The ‘Electricity’ hitmaker’ made this known on Thursday during an interview with Vibe Magazine, while discussing the creative process behind his upcoming album.
According to Davido, unlike in the past when he moved with a large entourage, family responsibilities and a desire to create a more productive environment have necessitated a change.
He added that he now prefers a smaller circle, especially since getting married and becoming more focused on his family and career.
Justifying his decision during the chat, he said, “Now I live with the kids and my wife. I can’t have 100 people in my house like before.”
Davido, however, stressed that reducing his entourage did not mean he abandoned his friends, stressing that he still supports people around him.
“It’s not like everybody that used to be around me are not still friends and not… you know. I’ve set everybody up financially,” the artist added.
He said he still encourages people close to him to develop skills and contribute meaningfully to his brand rather than simply being around him.
“If you’re around me, get something to do. What business do you want to do? Oh, you want to open a shop for your wife’s spot? Okay. How much? You take this,” he said.
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Davido further noted that he also rewards people who bring business opportunities to him, regardless of the size of the deal.
“If you bring a deal for me, I’ll let you get your 10%. I don’t care if it’s $4m. You get your 10% if you brought the deal,” he further said.
He went on to say his approach to his inner circle has also influenced how he records music, revealing that his latest project was created with fewer people involved compared to his earlier years.
“Normally, recorded 10 people in the studio. We’re drinking. You know how it is, like party vibe. But with this record, because of my situation, like I can’t be having 100 people at the crib,” he said.
The singer said he now prefers working with people who contribute directly to his career and creative process.
“When it’s time to work, we got to get to it,” he said.
Davido also revealed that respect remains a major requirement for anyone around him, saying he does not tolerate people who mistreat others.
“Respect. Definitely. Like when I see somebody acting out of character, respect to people. Respect a woman. Respect in general,” he said.
He also disclosed that his upbringing shaped his attitude towards treating people well, adding that his family taught him the importance of respect, sharing and caring for others.
“I was brought up to take care of people as well,” he said.
