Davido Slams Drake, Rejects International Collaborations Ahead of Upcoming Album

In a fiery and emotional revelation, Nigerian music superstar Davido has made headlines once again after publicly expressing his frustration with international collaborations—specifically calling out Canadian rapper Drake.

The outspoken Afrobeats singer, known for his unapologetic honesty, has made it clear that he is no longer interested in chasing international artists for validation or partnerships, especially when those efforts have not been reciprocated.

Speaking in a recent interview, Davido opened up about the setbacks he experienced during the making of his upcoming album.

He revealed that while he initially planned to include several foreign collaborations, many of those artists pulled out at the last minute, leaving him disappointed and reconsidering his approach.

“There were supposed to be foreign collaborations in the album,” he said.

“But most of them turned me down in the last minute.In fact, fvck foreign collaborations.”

The artist went on to explain that while working with global acts was once a key goal, he has since shifted his focus to making music for his home base—Nigeria and the rest of Africa.

“I care more about what I’m doing locally in my country and Africa as a whole,” he said firmly.

“That’s what matters most to me now.That’s where the love is.That’s where the real fans are.”

But the most explosive part of his remarks came when he mentioned Drake by name.

Davido didn’t mince words when talking about the long-rumored collaboration between him and the multi-platinum rapper.

“Me and Drake were supposed to have collaborated ever since,” he revealed.

“But he always finds a reason to turn me down.

I’m not really crazy about it, but if he ever decides to make a song with me, I’ll gladly do it—not like I need him.

But Drake no be God.I cannot keep on begging him for a collaboration.”

The statement sent shockwaves through social media, with fans and critics divided over Davido’s boldness.

Some hailed him for standing his ground and prioritizing African music over global approval.

Others accused him of being bitter, especially considering Drake’s successful past collaborations with fellow Nigerian artist Wizkid.

The reference to “Drake always running to Wizkid” has fueled speculation that the superstar may feel slighted by the international industry’s apparent preference for his longtime rival.

Davido’s frustration may stem not only from being turned down but also from a perceived lack of respect despite his contributions to Afrobeats and his global fanbase.

He has been one of the key figures in bringing Nigerian music to international audiences, performing on major stages, receiving global nominations, and collaborating with several American artists including Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, and Lil Baby.

However, the elusive Drake collaboration seems to have remained just out of reach—and Davido’s recent comments suggest that he is no longer willing to chase after it.

Fans have taken to X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram to share their thoughts, with hashtags like #DavidoNoBeGod and #DrakeDavido trending across Nigeria and parts of Africa.

While some fans mocked the outburst, others rallied behind him, applauding his focus on his roots and his desire to pour his energy into creating music for African audiences first.

One user wrote, “Davido said it as it is.

Drake is great but he’s not the gatekeeper to success.

African artists don’t need to beg anymore.”
Another added, “This isn’t about hate.

Davido is just tired of being sidelined, and he has every right to speak up.”As for the upcoming album, Davido has promised that it will change lives and shake the music scene.

“My album is coming up and it’s gonna change everybody’s life for good,” he stated confidently.“I don’t talk too much.

I just release hits back-to-back like I always do.”
While he didn’t reveal the title or tracklist, the message was clear: Davido is ready to dominate—on his own terms, without relying on global names to validate his artistry.

Those close to the singer say he’s been working around the clock in the studio, pouring his emotions into this new project.

The album is expected to blend his signature Afrobeat sound with deeper lyrics and a message of self-worth, pride, and independence.

He is also reportedly collaborating with several African artists, building a Pan-African soundscape that highlights the richness and diversity of the continent’s music.

Davido’s remarks may spark further dialogue about the role of international recognition in African music.

While global success has long been a marker of achievement, more African artists are beginning to shift the narrative.

They are focusing on creating for their core audiences first—Africa before the world.

Davido’s pivot echoes a broader sentiment among many musicians who feel that the global industry should come to Africa with respect, rather than African artists constantly chasing international approval.

For now, the tension between Davido and Drake remains unresolved.

Whether or not the Canadian rapper will respond publicly is unknown.

Drake has remained largely silent in past instances of controversy and may choose not to engage.

However, the world will be watching closely, as this development has opened a new chapter in the ongoing dynamic between Western artists and their African counterparts.

As Davido prepares to launch what may be one of the most important albums of his career, he is sending a strong message:
He is done asking, done chasing, and ready to claim his space with or without co-signs from international stars.

“Drake no be God,” he said.

And for Davido, that might be the mantra for a whole new era of fearless, unapologetically African music.