Nigerian music star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has revealed that he does not want any of his six children to go into music — even though one of them is already showing talent for it.
Speaking on a recent episode of The Vibe podcast, the 30BG boss opened up about the pressures, sacrifices, and emotional toll that come with a career in music. While he supports his children chasing their dreams, he admitted he would be hesitant to encourage them down the same path he took.
Davido spoke fondly about his second daughter, Hailey Veronica Adeleke. According to him, Hailey is outgoing, full of energy, and already leaning toward musicit’s a trait that would make any music parent proud. But for Davido, who has spent more than a decade at the top of Afrobeats, it also raises concerns.
“But I know what I went through. Can you go through what I go through? Knowing what I have been through, I’m skeptical about encouraging any of my children to do music,” he said.
Davido didn’t go into full detail on the podcast, but he referenced the many challenges that have defined his journey — from public scrutiny and industry politics to personal loss and mental health struggles.
Earlier this year, he spoke candidly about a difficult period following the death of his son Ifeanyi in 2022, saying he battled depression and even suicidal thoughts. That experience, along with the constant pressure of fame, touring, business, and being the son of billionaire businessman Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, has shaped how he views success.
For an artist who broke out with Dami Duro in 2011 and went on to become one of Africa’s biggest global exports, music brought fame, wealth, and cultural influence. It also brought intense public pressure, online criticism, and the burden of always having to deliver hits.
“I don’t want any of my children to pursue music,” he said plainly. It wasn’t said with anger, but with the weariness of someone who has lived through the highs and lows.despite his reservations, Davido was quick to add that he would never block his children from following their passions.
“Because my parents and my family eventually allowed me chase my dreams, I would never want to block any of my children from chasing their dreams. And if they are good, why not?” he said.
That balance reflects the influence of his own upbringing. Born into one of Nigeria’s most prominent families, Davido initially faced resistance when he chose music over a more conventional career path. His father eventually supported him, and that support became a turning point.now a father himself, Davido seems determined to offer his children the same freedom — even if it means watching them walk into an industry he knows can be brutal
Hailey, who often appears in Davido’s social media videos singing and dancing, has already captured fans’ attention for her personality and voice. At her age, it’s too early to tell if she’ll pursue music professionally.
It’s a sentiment many celebrity parents share: wanting to protect their children from the parts of fame that hurt, while still allowing them space to grow.davido’s remarks also tap into a larger conversation in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. As Afrobeats continues to dominate globally, more children of musicians are growing up around studios, tours, and stages.
Some, like the children of 2Baba and Banky W, have stayed out of the spotlight. Others are already being groomed for the industry. The question many artists now face is: do you prepare your kids for this life, or shield them from it?
For Davido, the answer right now is clear — he hopes they choose something else. But he also knows that talent and passion don’t always follow a parent’s plan.
Off stage, Davido has been focused on family, business, and philanthropy. He married Chioma Rowland in 2023, and together they are raising their children while balancing his global touring schedule.
He has also spoken about wanting to build businesses and investments that will outlast his music career — a way to secure a future for his children that doesn’t depend on charts or streaming numbers.
That long-term thinking may be why he’s cautious about music. He knows firsthand how unpredictable the industry can be.still, fans shouldn’t expect Davido to slow down anytime soon. He remains one of Afrobeats’ biggest ambassadors, with new music, tours, and collaborations on the way
