Afrobeats superstar Davido has revealed why he no longer surrounds himself with the large entourage that once followed him throughout his career, saying marriage, fatherhood and a renewed focus on productivity have transformed his lifestyle.
Speaking during an interview with Vibe Magazine, the award-winning singer said his priorities have shifted significantly in recent years, making it impractical to maintain the bustling environment that once defined his home and studio sessions.
According to Davido, settling into family life with his wife and children has naturally led him to embrace a smaller circle.
“Now I live with the kids and my wife. I can’t have 100 people in my house like before,” he said.
The singer explained that reducing the number of people around him should not be mistaken for abandoning longtime friends. Instead, he said he has focused on empowering those close to him financially by helping them establish businesses and build independent sources of income.
“It’s not like everybody that used to be around me are not still friends. I’ve set everybody up financially,” Davido said.
He disclosed that he encourages members of his inner circle to pursue meaningful ventures rather than relying solely on being part of his entourage.
“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.
The “Unavailable” crooner added that he also rewards associates who create business opportunities for him, insisting they deserve a fair commission regardless of the value of the deal.
“If you bring a deal for me, I’ll let you get your 10%. I don’t care if it’s $4 million. You get your 10% if you brought the deal,” he stated.
Davido also said the changes in his personal life have influenced his creative process. Unlike previous recording sessions that often resembled social gatherings filled with friends and associates, he now prefers a more disciplined studio environment centred on making music.
“Normally, there are 10 people in the studio. We’re drinking. You know how it is, like party vibe. But with this record, because of my situation, I can’t be having 100 people at the crib,” he explained.
He stressed that everyone involved in his current recording sessions has a defined role and contributes directly to the project.
“When it’s time to work, we got to get to it,” he added.
Respect, the singer said, remains one of the most important qualities he expects from those around him. He noted that he has little tolerance for people who mistreat others, especially women.
“Respect. Definitely. Like when I see somebody acting out of character, respect to people. Respect a woman. Respect in general,” Davido said.
The Grammy-nominated artiste attributed those values to his upbringing, saying his family instilled in him the importance of caring for people and treating everyone with dignity.
“I was brought up to take care of people as well,” he said.
Davido also reflected on his recent achievements, revealing that he had just completed a 53-show world tour and remains committed to expanding his global influence while continuing to evolve as an artiste.
