Davido Gets Real: “I’m Regretting Being Hardworking”

Afrobeats megastar Davido is no stranger to viral moments, but his latest one isn’t tied to a chart-topping hit, it’s a candid, emotional revelation that’s ignited debate across social media.

In a backstage clip following his Canada tour stop, the Nigerian artist visibly drained spoke openly about the emotional burden of success, his relentless work ethic, and the mental toll of being at the top of his game. His words struck a nerve with fans around the world:

“I’m regretting to myself for being hardworking. I’m telling you, mehn, there’s individual strength and mental ability that goes into this type of work… There are a lot of odds against me so it’s like ‘F**k, I gotta do this.'”

Davido, born David Adedeji Adeleke, is the son of billionaire businessman Adedeji Adeleke. While many associate him with affluence, Davido has built a reputation for working harder than expected of someone born into wealth. His global rise from Dami Duro to international hits like Fall, If, and Unavailable has been marked by extensive touring, consistent releases, and heavy promotion.

In the same clip, Davido offered a rare look into the duality he lives with:

“There’s money waiting for me. I don’t even have to work a day in my life if I don’t want to… but I do it because I love it. I love the fans.”

While the confession struck many as a moment of vulnerability and humility, reactions were sharply divided some supporters said, “People think having money makes life easy. Mental stress and pressure don’t care about your bank balance, while critics argued that he will never had to grind like the average person.”

Despite massive financial stability, Davido’s net worth is estimated between $40 million and $100 million, he emphasizes that money isn’t his motivator but his love for music and the fans.

This taps into a larger conversation artists and creators worldwide are having about burnout, mental health, and the constant pressure to deliver, perform, and stay relevant. In the hypercompetitive, always-online world of music, even the most successful artists often feel trapped by their own ambition.

Davido’s revelation cuts through the often-glossy, highlight-reel image of celebrity life. In showing exhaustion, self-doubt, and internal conflict, he reminds fans that even icons have breaking points. It also reaffirms the complexity of his persona: a man born into wealth, yet determined to carve his own legacy, even when it wears him down.