Afrobeats icon David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has officially joined the Recording Academy – the prestigious organization behind the Grammy Awards – as a voting member.
The announcement was made on September 23 via the Academy’s official Instagram page, marking a major milestone in the singer’s global music journey.
As a voting member, Davido now holds the power to nominate and vote for Grammy Award winners, contributing to decisions that shape the future of international music. He joins a select group of artists and industry professionals including Offset, Ravyn Lenae, Jessie Reyez, and Zac Brown Band, who were also inducted this season.
Describing the honor as a “game-changer,” Davido shared his excitement in a video message:
“I’ve learned that voting empowers you to have a say in what’s considered and celebrated each season. I’m honored to be part of this process and to represent Afrobeats on a global stage.”
This recognition comes after Davido earned four Grammy nominations between 2024 and 2025, including three nods at the 66th Grammy Awards and one for his collaboration with Chris Brown in 2025. Although he didn’t win, his nominations signaled a growing acceptance of Afrobeats within mainstream music circles.
The first round of voting for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards opens on October 3, 2025, with nominations scheduled to be announced on November 7. The awards ceremony will take place on February 1, 2026, at the Arena in Los Angeles.
Music professionals and fans across Africa have celebrated the news, calling it a step forward for the continent’s creative industry. Many see Davido’s inclusion as a sign that African voices are finally being heard in spaces that have long been dominated by Western narratives.
Davido Announces Nigerian Leg of 5IVE Tour
In a different development, Davido has officially unveiled the Nigerian leg of his highly anticipated 5IVE Tour.
The announcement, made via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, marks a celebratory homecoming for the Grammy-nominated artist after a string of sold-out shows across North America.
The Nigerian tour will span five major cities – Uyo, Yola, Enugu, Ibadan, and Lagos – bringing the electrifying energy of his Timeless album back to the heart of his fanbase.
Davido’s 5IVE Tour Nigeria kicks off on: October 26 – Uyo, Akwa Ibom. October 29 – Yola, Adamawa. November 1 – Enugu. November 9 – Ibadan. December 25 – Lagos (Grand Finale)
The Lagos finale, set for Christmas Day, is expected to be a festival-style celebration, featuring surprise guest appearances and immersive stage design.
In his announcement, Davido expressed heartfelt excitement about returning to perform in Nigeria:
“I’m blessed to perform all around the world, and everywhere I go – Nigeria goes with me. But this time, I’m bringing it home.”
“After an unforgettable North American tour, it’s only right we bring that energy back where it all began. My 5IVE Tour Nigeria, y’all ready? This one’s for the culture. This one’s personal. This one’s for us.”
The message resonated with fans, many of whom have waited years for a multi-city domestic tour from one of Afrobeats’ biggest stars.
Earlier this year, Davido’s 5IVE Tour swept through cities like New York, Toronto, and Atlanta, where he performed hits from Timeless, including “Unavailable,” “Feel,” and “Godfather.”
The album earned him four Grammy nominations and solidified his role as a global ambassador for Afrobeats.
Now, with the Nigerian leg, Davido is reconnecting with his roots – celebrating local culture, honoring his loyal fanbase, and reinforcing his commitment to the continent that birthed his sound.
