Popular Nigerian singer David Adeleke, better known by his stage name Davido, has recently opened up about the deep pain of losing loved ones and how he has managed to stay strong despite experiencing multiple tragedies. The 31-year-old superstar, who has become a household name across Africa and beyond, has faced more than his fair share of grief, losing his mother, Mrs. Victoria Imade Adeleke, when he was just 11 years old, and more recently, the tragic passing of his 3-year-old son, Ifeanyi Adeleke.
In addition to these personal losses, Davido has also endured the deaths of close associates and friends, including Tagbo, DJ Olu, Obama DMW, and his personal photographer, Fortune. These losses came in quick succession, and despite the overwhelming grief, Davido has continued to maintain his career and remain one of the most successful and beloved artists in Nigeria.
Speaking in a candid interview with Mystery Fashionist during his recent visit to New York, Davido shared how his faith has played a crucial role in helping him cope with these heart-wrenching losses. He emphasized that his belief in God and the strength he derives from his faith have been instrumental in keeping him going during some of the darkest moments of his life.
“I have lost a lot of people. I lost my mum at the age of eleven. I’m just being strong. I did a song called ‘Stand Strong,’” Davido said, referring to his 2022 hit, which was inspired by the need to remain resilient in the face of adversity.
The song, Stand Strong, resonates with his journey through grief and his determination to rise above the pain. Through his music, Davido has been able to express emotions that may otherwise be difficult to share, giving his fans a glimpse into the personal struggles behind the glamorous facade of fame.
In the interview, Davido continued, “I feel like strength and obviously, my faith has kept me going.” His words reflect the deep connection he has with his spiritual beliefs, which have become a source of comfort and guidance throughout his life. Despite the heartbreaking losses he has experienced, Davido remains grounded and continues to move forward with the strength his faith provides.
The loss of his son, Ifeanyi, in October 2022 was one of the most devastating blows to the singer’s life. Ifeanyi, the child he had with his partner, Chioma Rowland, tragically passed away in a drowning accident, leaving Davido and Chioma heartbroken. The tragedy shook the entertainment industry, with fans and fellow celebrities offering their condolences and prayers for the couple.
Although the pain of losing a child is unimaginable, Davido has found ways to stay resilient and has channeled his emotions into his music and career. He has remained a source of inspiration for many who admire his ability to keep pushing forward despite the heavy weight of grief.
In addition to discussing his personal losses, Davido also took the opportunity to address some common misconceptions about him. As one of the most recognizable figures in Nigerian entertainment, Davido is no stranger to public scrutiny and varying perceptions from fans and critics alike. One of the misconceptions, according to the singer, is the belief that he is not approachable.
“I think sometimes, people think I am not approachable,” Davido said during the interview. Despite his massive success and fame, he explained that he remains down-to-earth and accessible, even though people often misinterpret his status as a barrier. He attributed his humble demeanor to the way he was raised, pointing out that coming from a large family meant he was always surrounded by people.
“I grew up in a big family, I’m used to having people around me,” Davido explained. His background, rooted in family values, has helped shape his openness and willingness to connect with people, whether they are close friends, fans, or even strangers.
Interestingly, while some may view him as unapproachable, others believe he is too accessible. Davido touched on this contradiction, highlighting how the perception of his openness can vary depending on the perspective. “Another misconception is that people also think I am too accessible,” he noted, underscoring the complex relationship he has with public opinion.
Despite the mixed perceptions, Davido remains confident in his path, crediting his success to a higher power. “My talent and success is God-given,” he said, reinforcing his belief that everything he has achieved in his career is a blessing and a product of divine intervention. His humility, coupled with his acknowledgment of the role that faith plays in his life, continues to endear him to millions of fans who see him not only as a talented artist but also as a genuine and relatable individual.
As Davido continues to navigate the highs and lows of life, he remains an enduring figure in the African music scene, beloved for his chart-topping hits, vibrant personality, and resilience in the face of personal tragedy. His reflections on loss, strength, and the misconceptions surrounding his public persona provide a deeper understanding of the man behind the music.
Through his faith, music, and family, Davido continues to find the strength to move forward, inspiring others along the way. His openness about his struggles with grief serves as a reminder that even in the world of fame and fortune, personal loss can have a profound impact—but it is possible to find the strength to keep going.
