David Adeleke, better known by his stage name Davido, took a break from public life in November 2022 to mourn the passing of his three-year-old son, Ifeanyi.
After almost six months away – with the exception of a performance at the closing ceremony of the 2022 FIFA World Cup – the American-born entertainer has released a new album proclaiming he is “ready to stand up again.”
“Timeless” is Davido’s fourth studio album since he began making music 11 years ago. It contains 17 tracks. According to him, the album’s title reflects his desire for it to endure as a classic for decades. Recently, he told CNN’s Larry Madowo in Lagos, Nigeria, “I am certain that if you interview me in the future, we will still be discussing this album.”
“Timeless” features a variety of artists, including the British-Nigerian rapper Skepta, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Angélique Kidjo, and the Jamaican performer Dexta Daps.
“A breathe of fresh air”
The album examines a variety of musical subgenres, including Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Dancehall. According to Davido, the blend of sounds ensures that every listener will find a tune to their liking.
“Every time I play the album for someone, there are two or three recordings they can take home. “This is how I believe an album should be,” he explained.
Throughout his career, the singer-songwriter has reached multiple milestones, including receiving dozens of awards and nominations within and outside Africa, selling out performances at London’s O2 Arena, and closing the 2022 World Cup with a performance viewed by millions.
“Omo Baba Olowo” (2012), “A Good Time” (2019), and “A Better Time” (2020) were also commercially successful.
“On the album, you will hear a few tracks that may transport you back in time and into your emotions… “You will definitely hear me discuss a few personal experiences I’ve had,” he added.
“I have not released an album in nearly three years. And I believe that the world needs Davido’s vitality. I want them to experience a breath of fresh air when they listen to the album,” he said, adding that he hopes his new songs will appease his admirers who have missed him.
The 30-year-old also pledges that the album will have the “goofy and fun” energy that his 26 million Instagram followers are accustomed to. “Everyone knows that when you wake up, the first thing you want to do is check out Davido’s Instagram story to see what he’s doing today and similar things,” he said. “I simply want them to feel that love and vitality again.”
Music and sorrow
Before resolving on the final version of “Timeless,” the album went through at least three distinct phases, according to the performer.
And while there are tracks with a lot of strong energy and “good vibes,” he says that his son’s death had some influence on the project. Before my son passed away, we completed the album. But it was a tragic circumstance, and I had to take a step back and calm down,” he explained.
The musician attributes his return to the music industry to the overwhelming support he received from family, friends, admirers, and well-wishers.
“At one point, I was unable to access Instagram for weeks. I checked it one day and saw messages from every type of person in the globe. I responded, “Don’t worry, you can see that everyone is rooting for you.” CNN quoted Davido as saying, “That experience gave me the strength to stand back up, return to the studio, and continue doing what I love.”
And now that he is back doing what he enjoys, he says that he and his team will continue to create music that resonates with people.
“That is why we are here; that is why we were brought into this universe. I’m just eager to return, I’m eager to get back on the road. There will be numerous modifications.
