Nigerian afropop superstar Davido has made history as the first male living artist to grace the cover of Rolling Stone Africa. The magazine’s March/April issue spotlights his decade-long influence on African music, his unwavering commitment to his craft, and his impact as a global ambassador for Afrobeats.
Since his rise to fame at 19 with the hit track Dami Duro, Davido, born David Adedeji Adeleke, has played a crucial role in bringing African music to the world stage. With chart-topping songs like If, Fall, Blow My Mind, and Unavailable, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of Afropop. His journey, marked by resilience and determination, extends beyond his music career as he nurtures emerging talent under his own record label.
Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), expressed excitement over the collaboration between the Council and *Rolling Stone Africa*, stating that Davido’s feature is a fitting tribute to his influence. Asika emphasized the global recognition of Nigerian talent in various creative fields and congratulated Davido on the upcoming release of his fifth studio album, 5ive.
CEO of Rolling Stone Africa
, D.R. Bellegarde Smeralda, highlighted Davido’s role as a cultural ambassador, noting that his contribution to Afrobeats and Pan-Africanism made him the ideal choice for the magazine’s cover. The cover story explores Davido’s journey beyond accolades, offering insights from close collaborators and team members who have worked with him over the years.
Rolling Stone Africa, launched in August 2024, is dedicated to amplifying African music, culture, and voices on the global stage. Led by the Mwankom Group in partnership with Penske Media Corporation (PMC), the magazine provides in-depth features, exclusive interviews, and digital-first content to connect global audiences with Africa’s evolving cultural landscape.
A portion of the magazine’s proceeds goes toward initiatives supporting African history preservation and children’s welfare, reinforcing its commitment to making an impact beyond entertainment.
