
Nigerian Afrobeat sensation, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has responded to revelations about his first official music contract, shared by entertainment talent manager, Tosin Ashafa.
Ashafa, in a post via X (formerly Twitter), reminisced about signing Davido to his first music deal under Black Diamond Promotions alongside Cecil Hammond and another silent partner. He revealed that Davido’s father, Dr. Deji Adeleke, stepped in to buy out the contract after realizing his son’s determination to pursue a music career.
“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.
In his response, Davido fondly recalled the moment, acknowledging the quality of the contract but emphasizing his father’s insistence on him owning 100% of his work.
“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 Dami Duro video in his office! He knew it was game time!!!” Davido shared.
He also expressed gratitude to Ashafa and the team for their role in the early stages of his career, adding, “So much respect to you guys for allowing me walk!! Just know you were part of something that turned out to be phenomenal!!”
The incident marked a turning point in Davido’s career, laying the foundation for what would become a globally recognized brand. With his father’s backing and creative control, Davido went on to release hits like Dami Duro, which cemented his position as a leading figure in the Afrobeat movement.
Today, Davido is celebrated not just for his musical talent but also for his impact on the global music industry, a journey that began with unwavering determination and critical support from those who believed in his vision.