Why I no longer move with a large entourage — Davido
July 30, 2026 7:28 pm
Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido.
Afrobeats star, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has revealed that he reduced the number of people around him because of changes in his lifestyle, family responsibilities and a desire to create a more productive environment.
The singer said that unlike in the past when he moved with a large group of people, he now prefers a smaller circle, especially since getting married and becoming more focused on his family and career.
Davido disclosed this in an interview with Vibe Magazine on Thursday while discussing the creative process behind his upcoming album, explaining that he could no longer have a large number of people around him as he did earlier in his career.
“Now I live with the kids and my wife. I can’t have 100 people in my house like before,” he said.
The singer, however, stressed that reducing his entourage did not mean abandoning his friends, noting that he has continued to support people around him by helping them establish businesses and create sources of income.
“It’s not like everybody that used to be around me are not still friends and not… you know. I’ve set everybody up financially,” he said.
According to Davido, he encourages people close to him to develop skills and contribute meaningfully to his brand rather than simply being around him.
“If you’re around me, get something to do. What business do you want to do? Oh, you want to open a shop for your wife’s spot? Okay. How much? You take this,” he said.
He added that he also rewards people who bring business opportunities to him, regardless of the size of the deal.
“If you bring a deal for me, I’ll let you get your 10%. I don’t care if it’s $4m. You get your 10% if you brought the deal,” he said.
Davido said his approach to his inner circle has also influenced how he records music, revealing that his latest project was created with fewer people involved compared to his earlier years.
“Normally, recorded 10 people in the studio. We’re drinking. You know how it is, like party vibe. But with this record, because of my situation, like I can’t be having 100 people at the crib,” he said.
The singer said he now prefers working with people who contribute directly to his career and creative process.
“When it’s time to work, we got to get to it,” he said.
Davido also revealed that respect remains a major requirement for anyone around him, saying he does not tolerate people who mistreat others.
“Respect. Definitely. Like when I see somebody acting out of character, respect to people. Respect a woman. Respect in general,” he said.
The Unavailable crooner said his upbringing shaped his attitude towards treating people well, adding that his family taught him the importance of respect, sharing and caring for others.
“I was brought up to take care of people as well,” he said.
Davido, who recently completed a 53-show world tour, said he remains focused on building his legacy while continuing to evolve as an artiste.
Fawzi is a journalist and subeditor covering a wide range of beats including politics, metro, and international news, among others. He also optimises stories for digital audiences.
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