Nigerian music megastar Davido has publicly expressed heartfelt appreciation to renowned producer and music director Cobhams Asuquo for his transformative impact on the singer’s live stage presence.
Taking to his Instagram story, Davido wrote:
“Thank you so much for redefining my stage craft. I love you and got you for life, big brother.”
The praise comes shortly after Davido’s electrifying, sold-out performance at the 19,000-capacity Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada. The show marked a major highlight of his 5 Alive Tour and firmly positioned him among the elite Nigerian artists like Burna Boy, Rema, and Asake, who have also headlined this prestigious venue.
What set this performance apart, according to fans and critics, was the artistic depth and musical nuance brought to Davido’s usually high-octane set. Under Cobhams Asuquo’s direction, the concert featured, rearranged versions of fan-favorite hits with dramatic build-ups and live instrumentation, instrumental solos that offered a richer, more layered sound experience and clever sampling of iconic beats that kept the crowd energized and engaged
Guest appearances from Popcaan, Mayorkun, and Omah Lay added to the night’s intensity, with each artist joining Davido for their hit collaborations. It was not just a concert, it was a statement of creative evolution.
Cobhams Asuquo: The Vision Behind the Sound
As a multi-award-winning producer, composer, and performer, Cobhams Asuquo is no stranger to innovation. From producing Asa’s critically acclaimed debut album to leading complex orchestral projects, Cobhams is revered for his ability to bring musical narratives to life. His role as music director for Davido’s 5 Alive Tour has proven to be a strategic masterstroke.
With a keen ear for live arrangement and a deep understanding of musical dynamics, Cobhams has introduced elements that push Davido’s performances into new artistic territory, balancing showmanship with musical sophistication.
The 5 Alive Tour is in support of Davido’s fifth studio album, “5ive,” released in April 2025. The album includes collaborations with international stars such as Chris Brown, Becky G, Shenseea, and Dadju, and blends Afrobeats with pop, dancehall, and R&B influences. The tour is global in scope, spanning major cities in North America and Europe.
Following the success in Canada, Davido is headed to Barclays Center in New York, where anticipation is high. If the Toronto show is any indication, fans in NYC can expect a masterclass in live Afrobeats, anchored by Cobhams’s musical finesse and Davido’s unmatched charisma.
Davido’s embrace of a more orchestrated, musically rich concert experience signals an exciting new chapter in his career. By teaming up with Cobhams Asuquo, he’s not only refining his own performances but also raising the bar for what a live Afrobeats show can be.
As the 5 Alive Tour continues to sweep across major venues, one thing is clear, Davido is no longer just performing, he’s curating experiences.
