Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, says he would have found his way into the entertainment industry even if music hadn’t worked out for him.
The 30BG boss made the revelation during a recent interview with PlayKisstra, where he spoke about his love for show business and the career paths he could have taken.
Davido explained that his passion for entertainment runs deeper than performing on stage. According to him, he would have gravitated toward the business side of the industry.
“I’d probably be a label owner or have a media house because I’ve always loved entertainment,” he said.The Unavailable singer added that even if he had taken a corporate route, he would still have found a way to stay connected to music.
“Even if I was working in my daddy’s office, I can see myself having a side business like a music label just because I love music,” he said.
The comment reflects Davido’s long-standing interest in building structures within the industry, not just being an artist. Through his label DMW, he has signed and helped launch several acts, and he has also been involved in concerts, brand deals, and media projects over the years.
Beyond music, Davido revealed that he is academically qualified and could have pursued a corporate career if he chose to.
“I have a degree. I have a BSc in Business Management, so I can go to Barclays here and try to get a job. You know what I’m saying? I could get a job. I can actually get a job. I got a résumé,” he said with a laugh.
Davido graduated from Babcock University in 2015 with a degree in Business Management. He has often spoken about how education was important to his family, and how having a degree gives him options beyond music.
His statement comes at a time when conversations about career backup plans and education among Nigerian artists are becoming more common. For Davido, having both artistic talent and business training appears to have shaped how he approaches the industry.
DAILY POST recalls that Davido broke into the mainstream in 2012 with Dami Duro, the breakout single from his debut album Omo Baba Olowo.
More than a decade later, he has grown from a breakout Afrobeats act to a global name. He has multiple international collaborations, sold-out shows, and a Grammy nomination to his name.
Despite his success, Davido says his core motivation remains the same: a genuine love for entertainment.
Davido’s comments highlight a shift in how many African artists view their careers. Rather than relying solely on performing, many are now building labels, media platforms, and business ventures to secure long-term influence in the industry.
With DMW, Davido has already played the role of executive and mentor. His mention of possibly running a media house also suggests he sees value in controlling the narrative and platforms through which music and culture are shared.
For an artist who has experienced both massive success and personal challenges in the public eye, the idea of diversifying within entertainment seems to be a deliberate one.
“I’ve always loved entertainment,” Davido said. Whether as a performer, label boss, or media owner, it appears that path was always going to lead him back to the industry
