Nigerian global star Davido has dismissed growing claims that Afrobeats is losing momentum, insisting the genre continues to evolve and expand globally.
Speaking ahead of his debut at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, the award-winning artist made it clear that Afrobeats remains a powerful cultural force despite industry concerns.
Davido will stand as the only Afrobeats artist on the 2026 Coachella lineup. However, he sees the moment as both an honor and a responsibility. He emphasized that more African acts deserve global stages.
“I’m proud to represent Africa,” he said. “Our sound has influenced the world, so global festivals must continue to include African artists.”
In recent years, Coachella showcased several African stars. Artists like Burna Boy, Rema, Tems, and Tyla all performed on the iconic stage. This year, however, the presence appears reduced, sparking debate across the music industry.
Still, Davido rejects the idea of decline. Instead, he describes the shift as part of natural industry cycles. “Trends change every year,” he explained. “But Afrobeats will never disappear. It will keep evolving.”
The conversation around Afrobeats has intensified in recent months. Critics have pointed to reduced label investment and changing global trends. Nevertheless, Davido insists the genre’s foundation remains strong.
He argued that music cannot be treated as a short-term trend. According to him, Afrobeats has already secured its place in global culture.
Beyond global validation, Davido stressed the importance of African independence. He wants the continent’s music industry to grow on its own terms.
“Western validation is not everything,” he said. “Africa must stand on its own.”
That vision includes building stronger infrastructure across the continent. He called for more arenas and stadiums to support the growing demand for live music. Furthermore, he urged investors to see Africa as a global creative hub.
“We need to invest in ourselves,” he added. “The world should keep tapping into Africa.”
Davido’s career reflects that ambition. From early hits like “Dami Duro” to his latest album 5IVE, he has maintained global relevance. The project debuted strongly on international charts, reinforcing Afrobeats’ reach.
At the same time, the singer continues to expand his influence. His upcoming “Davido & Friends” concert in London will feature stars like Omah Lay and Black Sherif.
He also remains active on his “5IVE Alive Tour,” drawing inspiration from fans worldwide. Touring, he says, fuels his creativity and keeps him connected to his audience.
Despite a demanding schedule, Davido maintains a balance between rest and productivity. He hinted at new music and major moves as summer approaches.
Reflecting on his journey, the artist noted that 2026 marks 15 years in the industry. He described his latest album as a milestone but confirmed that bigger achievements lie ahead.
Even near-misses, such as his recent Grammy Awards nomination, serve as motivation. He believes African music deserves even greater recognition on the global stage.
As he prepares for Coachella, Davido is focused on more than just performance. He aims to showcase the evolution of Afrobeats and its lasting global impact.
