The African music industry has witnessed a massive transformation over the past decade, with Afrobeats becoming one of the most popular and influential genres globally. Two artists who have been at the forefront of this revolution are Davido and Wizkid. These Nigerian superstars have not only dominated charts across Africa but have also penetrated the global music scene, collaborating with top international artists and performing in major arenas around the world.
Davido, often referred to as “Omo Baba Olowo” (O.B.O), meaning “Son of a Rich Man,” burst onto the scene with his unique fusion of Afrobeats, hip-hop, and pop, quickly capturing the attention of millions. On the other hand, Wizkid, also known as Starboy, rose to fame with his smooth vocals and infectious rhythms, earning a reputation as one of Africa’s most talented and influential artists. Both artists have won numerous awards, broken records, and gained worldwide recognition, making them two of the biggest names in African music today.
However, beyond their musical talents, Davido and Wizkid have also built significant fortunes through lucrative endorsement deals, business ventures, and successful music careers. Their wealth has been a subject of much debate among fans, as each camp argues over who is the richer of the two. With both artists owning luxury cars, mansions, private jets, and living lifestyles that many can only dream of, determining who holds the edge in terms of wealth is no easy task.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the lives of these two superstars, analyzing their career achievements, business endeavors, and overall financial standings to answer the burning question: Who is wealthier between Davido and Wizkid?
The Richest Between Davido and Wizkid
Overview of Davido
Davido, born David Adedeji Adeleke on November 21, 1992, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, was raised in Lagos, Nigeria. Coming from a wealthy family, with his father being a billionaire business tycoon, Davido was exposed to a life of affluence early on. Despite his privileged background, he pursued a passion for music, showing a clear determination to carve his own path in the industry.
Davido’s musical career officially took off in 2011 with the release of his debut single “Back When,” featuring Nigerian rapper Naeto C. However, it was his 2012 hit single “Dami Duro” that catapulted him to stardom, earning him widespread recognition across Nigeria and beyond. Known for his energetic performances and catchy tunes, Davido quickly became a household name.
Major Achievements and Collaborations
Over the years, Davido has achieved remarkable success, releasing multiple chart-topping albums, including Omo Baba Olowo (2012), A Good Time (2019), and A Better Time (2020). His music has been streamed millions of times worldwide, and he is regarded as one of the most influential African artists of his generation.
Davido has also collaborated with some of the biggest names in the global music industry, including Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, Young Thug, and Meek Mill, among others. These collaborations have not only expanded his fan base internationally but have also increased his wealth.
Business Ventures and Endorsements
Beyond his music career, Davido has ventured into various business opportunities, establishing himself as a savvy entrepreneur. He is the founder of Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), a record label that has produced some of Nigeria’s most talented artists, such as Mayorkun, Dremo, and Peruzzi. Through his label, Davido has further cemented his legacy in the music industry while also generating additional income.
In terms of endorsements, Davido has signed several lucrative deals with major brands. Some of his high-profile endorsement contracts include partnerships with MTN, Guinness Nigeria, and Pepsi. In 2021, Davido became the first African artist to be signed by Puma, further boosting his earnings and global recognition.
Overview of Wizkid
Born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, Wizkid grew up in a relatively modest environment. His passion for music began at a young age when he started recording songs with a local group at just 11 years old. Wizkid’s breakthrough came in 2010 when he signed with Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), founded by Nigerian music mogul Banky W. His debut single, “Holla at Your Boy,” released in 2010, became an instant hit, marking the beginning of his rise to superstardom.
Wizkid’s debut album, Superstar (2011), cemented his place as one of Africa’s biggest artists. His ability to blend Afrobeats with R&B and pop influences created a unique sound that resonated with audiences across Nigeria and beyond. As his career progressed, Wizkid’s global appeal grew, eventually making him one of the most recognized African musicians internationally.
Major Achievements and Collaborations
Wizkid’s impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. He has released several successful albums, including Ayo (2014), Sounds from the Other Side (2017), and Made in Lagos (2020). His song “Ojuelegba” became a global sensation and caught the attention of international stars like Drake and Skepta, propelling him further into the international spotlight.
One of Wizkid’s most notable achievements was his collaboration with Drake on the hit single “One Dance” in 2016, which topped charts worldwide, including the Billboard Hot 100. This collaboration earned him international acclaim and significantly increased his wealth. He has also worked with other top artists such as Beyoncé, Akon, and Damian Marley, further solidifying his reputation as a global star.
Business Ventures and Endorsements
Like Davido, Wizkid has diversified his income through various business ventures and endorsements. He is the founder of Starboy Entertainment, a record label that has nurtured several successful Nigerian artists. Wizkid’s label has helped him establish himself not only as a talented artist but also as a successful music executive, adding to his wealth.
Wizkid has also signed numerous endorsement deals throughout his career. Some of his major partnerships include deals with Pepsi, Glo, Guinness, UBA, and Tecno Mobile. In 2021, he inked a deal with Puma, becoming an ambassador for the brand alongside Davido. These endorsements have contributed significantly to his financial success and global visibility.
Net Worth Comparison
When it comes to comparing the net worth of Davido and Wizkid, both artists have amassed significant fortunes from their successful music careers, endorsement deals, and various business ventures. However, determining who is wealthier involves breaking down their earnings from multiple streams.
Davido’s Net Worth
As of recent estimates, Davido is believed to have a net worth ranging between $40 million to $50 million. His wealth comes from a variety of sources, including:
- Music Sales and Streaming: Davido’s music, including albums like A Good Time and A Better Time, has been streamed millions of times across platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. His consistent release of hit singles has kept him at the top of the Afrobeats genre.
- Concerts and Tours: Davido is known for selling out large arenas in Africa, Europe, and North America. His tours generate substantial revenue, with fans eager to see him perform live.
- Endorsements: Over the years, Davido has inked high-profile endorsement deals with brands like MTN, Pepsi, Puma, and Infinix Mobile, each of which adds millions to his earnings.
- Business Ventures: In addition to his music, Davido’s record label Davido Music Worldwide (DMW) has signed several successful artists, further contributing to his income. He is also involved in other ventures, such as real estate.
Wizkid’s Net Worth
Wizkid is estimated to have a net worth in the range of $35 million to $45 million. His wealth is similarly diversified:
- Music Sales and Streaming: Wizkid has a massive global fanbase, and his albums like Made in Lagos have seen tremendous success on streaming platforms. His international collaborations, particularly with artists like Drake and Beyoncé, have boosted his streaming numbers and album sales.
- Concerts and Tours: Wizkid consistently sells out shows in major cities across the globe. His Made in Lagos tour, for instance, sold out in cities like London and Los Angeles, bringing in substantial revenue.
- Endorsements: Wizkid has endorsement deals with major brands like Pepsi, UBA, Glo, and Puma, contributing to his wealth. His role as a global ambassador for Puma further solidifies his status as an international icon.
- Business Ventures: Through his label Starboy Entertainment, Wizkid has developed a strong business acumen, signing promising artists and engaging in various entrepreneurial activities. He is also involved in fashion, with his Starboy merchandise line.
Who Is Wealthier?
When comparing their net worth, Davido edges out Wizkid slightly with an estimated net worth closer to the $50 million mark, while Wizkid hovers around $45 million. However, both artists are incredibly wealthy, and their fortunes continue to grow as they expand their influence and business endeavors globally.
Luxury Lifestyles and Assets
Both Davido and Wizkid are known for their extravagant lifestyles, which include owning luxurious cars, private jets, and sprawling mansions. Their opulent lifestyles not only showcase their wealth but also reflect their love for the finer things in life.
Davido’s Luxury Lifestyle
As a music superstar and the son of a billionaire, Davido lives a life of extraordinary luxury. Some of the key highlights of his assets and lifestyle include:
- Mansions: Davido owns multiple properties, including a luxurious mansion in the affluent neighborhood of Lekki, Lagos. He also has a multi-million-dollar home in Atlanta, USA, where he was born. These properties are lavishly furnished and showcase his taste for elegance.
- Cars: Davido has a collection of high-end cars that would make any car enthusiast envious. His fleet includes a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Panamera, Range Rover, and a Mercedes-AMG G63. In 2021, he added a brand-new Lamborghini Aventador to his collection, showing his penchant for luxury vehicles.
- Private Jet: Davido made headlines when he revealed that he owns a private jet. The jet is used for his frequent travels for performances, tours, and personal engagements worldwide.
- Jewelry and Fashion: Known for his flashy style, Davido is often seen sporting expensive jewelry, including diamond-encrusted watches, chains, and rings. He is also a fashion icon, frequently seen in designer outfits from brands like Gucci, Balenciaga, and Louis Vuitton.
Wizkid’s Luxury Lifestyle
Wizkid, often more private about his personal life, also enjoys a lavish lifestyle that reflects his status as one of Africa’s richest musicians. Here are some highlights:
- Mansions: Wizkid owns multiple properties, including a luxurious mansion in Lekki, Lagos, and another in Los Angeles, USA. His homes are known for their tasteful design and modern amenities, providing him with the ultimate comfort and privacy.
- Cars: While Wizkid is less flashy about his assets, he still boasts an impressive collection of luxury cars. His fleet includes a Porsche Panamera, Lamborghini Urus, Mercedes-Benz G63, and a Bentley Continental GT. These vehicles reflect his love for powerful and stylish cars.
- Private Jet: Wizkid, like Davido, is known to travel in private jets, especially when touring internationally. While he doesn’t frequently flaunt his jet ownership, he regularly shares images of himself enjoying the luxurious experience of private air travel.
- Jewelry and Fashion: Wizkid is also known for his understated yet expensive taste in fashion and jewelry. He has been seen wearing custom-made diamond chains, bracelets, and rings, as well as designer clothing from brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and Off-White.
Social Media Flex
Both Davido and Wizkid often share glimpses of their luxurious lifestyles on social media, where millions of followers watch them enjoy life’s extravagances. Whether it’s Davido flaunting his newly purchased cars or Wizkid showing off his designer outfits, their social media presence adds to the public perception of their wealth and success.
Conclusion: Who is Richer – Davido or Wizkid?
When comparing the wealth and success of Davido and Wizkid, both artists stand as icons of Afrobeats with impressive accomplishments. They have made significant contributions to the global rise of African music, and their wealth is a reflection of their immense talent, hard work, and business acumen.
Davido’s Edge
Davido holds a slight advantage in terms of net worth, with estimates placing his fortune closer to $50 million, compared to Wizkid’s $45 million. This difference can be attributed to several factors:
- Family Wealth: Davido comes from a wealthy background, which provided him with financial stability early in life. His father, a Nigerian billionaire, gave him access to opportunities that helped him build his empire.
- Business Ventures: Davido’s record label, DMW, has been a strong business venture, producing successful artists and creating additional revenue streams. He also diversifies his income through real estate and other investments.
Wizkid’s Legacy
Wizkid, while slightly behind in net worth, is undeniably one of the most successful African artists globally. His collaboration with international stars like Drake and Beyoncé has elevated his status as an international artist, helping him earn millions through endorsements, concerts, and streaming royalties. Wizkid’s humble beginnings also make his rise to fame and fortune even more impressive, with a clear focus on his artistry and long-term career development.
Final Verdict
While Davido may have the upper hand in terms of net worth, Wizkid’s influence, especially on the global stage, is unparalleled. Both artists have achieved tremendous success, and the margin in their wealth is relatively small. Ultimately, the question of who is richer may be less important than their shared legacy in the music industry, where both are considered kings in their own right.
