US city Atlanta now has Davido Day

23 Nov 2023 - 09:57

Published under the Creative Commons Licence

The city of Atlanta in Georgia, US, has designated 18 November as ‘Davido Day’ in honour of the Nigerian Afrobeats singer.

Davido.

Confirmed by Atlanta mayor Andre Dickens during a press conference on Wednesday, ‘Davido Day’ is in recognition of the artist’s impact and influence on the local entertainment industry.

The milestone follows the singer’s maiden A.W.A.Y (Are We African Yet?) Music Festival, held at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta in celebration of African music and culture in the diaspora while promoting partnerships among creatives.

“On behalf of the city of Atlanta, thank you for your tireless efforts as a renowned singer, songwriter, producer, business leader, philanthropist, and community advocate,” said Dickens in a message to the singer on 21 November, adding that the artist has “captivated audiences worldwide, becoming a global icon in the music industry. Throughout your remarkable career, you’ve amassed an incredible number of accolades and continue to use your platform to give back to communities in the United States and throughout Africa.”

In a separate statement, the Atlanta City Council said: “Be it resolved that we, the members of the Atlanta City Council, on behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, do hereby proclaim November 18, 2023, as Davido Day in the city of Atlanta.” Simultaneously, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners also extended an honour to Davido, designating November 21 as ‘Davido Appreciation Day’ in Fulton County, Georgia.

Davido is widely regarded as the poster boy for Afrobeats, and one of the most successful Nigerian musicians in the digital era, starting with well-received collections like Omo Baba Olowo (2012) and A Good Time (2019). He is also behind numerous global hits such as ‘Aye’, ‘If’ and ‘Fall’.

His latest recognition follows three nominations at the 66th Grammys on 5 February. Propped by his latest album Timeless, his nominations include Best African Music Performance, Best Global Music Performance and Best Global Music Album.

Davido, who made an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon this week, will play at Madison Square Garden in New York on 17 April.