In a candid conversation on a recent episode of the Bagfuel Brigade podcast, the “Unavailable” and “Blow My Mind” hitmaker recounted how a chance virtual introduction in 2018 blossomed into a genuine friendship that helped elevate his global profile.
A Moment That Sparked a Movement
“Meeting Chris Brown changed my life,” Davido said. “I met him in 2018. He had a Nigerian friend—one of his best friends—who called me on FaceTime one day.”
That unexpected call revealed something Davido hadn’t anticipated: his music was being played and enjoyed at Chris Brown’s house.
“My song was playing in the background, and I asked where he was. He said he was at Chris Brown’s house. I was like, ‘What? Y’all playing my music?’ Then he showed me Chris dancing to my song.”
What followed was a game-changing moment. “He gave Chris Brown the phone. That was the first time we had a conversation,” Davido said.
From Co-Signs to Collaborations
Months later, Davido traveled to the U.S. and met Chris Brown in person. According to the Nigerian singer, the chemistry was instant.
“From the first time we met, we just naturally became friends,” he said. Their friendship soon evolved into artistic collaboration, leading to the release of “Blow My Mind” in 2019—one of the biggest international Afrobeats crossovers of that year. The track showcased their synergy, fusing Brown’s smooth R&B vocals with Davido’s distinct Afro-fusion energy.
The collaboration didn’t just top charts; it introduced Davido’s music to an even wider Western audience, cementing his status as one of Africa’s foremost global music ambassadors.
A Brotherhood Beyond the Studio
Since that first link-up, the two artists have shared the stage and appeared on several records together. Beyond music, Davido has often spoken about the bond they’ve built—a brotherhood that transcends industry politics and national boundaries.
Chris Brown, known for embracing global sounds, has frequently expressed admiration for Afrobeats and has collaborated with several African artists over the years. His early support of Davido and their continued relationship reflect a broader trend of cross-cultural collaboration that is reshaping the global music landscape.
Afrobeats to the World
Davido’s story is emblematic of the Afrobeats movement’s rapid rise to global prominence, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Tems, and Rema now topping charts, winning major awards, and headlining international festivals.
As Davido continues to push boundaries with his sound and influence, his relationship with Chris Brown stands out as a key chapter—one that underscores the power of authentic connection and the global appeal of African music.