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CDQ Recalls Davido’s Attempt to Sign Him: “He Wanted Me to Be Africa’s Biggest Rapper”
In a recent sit-down with Echo Room, indigenous rap sensation CDQ opened up about a missed opportunity to join Davido’s DMW label, revealing that the Afrobeats superstar once pitched a bold vision to transform him into the biggest rapper on the continent.
According to CDQ, the conversation began when Davido reached out via Twitter (now X) with an enticing proposal. “David reached out on Twitter and said, ‘I’ve made a lot of money touring Africa, and I want to invest in you. I want to make you the biggest rapper in Africa,’” he recalled.
Though flattered, CDQ and his longtime collaborator Masterkraft opted for a different route. They arranged a meeting with Davido, where they explained that CDQ’s music, rooted deeply in street-hop and Yoruba culture, might not align with the more mainstream orientation of the DMW brand.
Instead of signing outright, they suggested a partnership deal, which ultimately didn’t materialize due to differing visions.
Despite the deal falling through, the mutual respect between the two artists led to notable collaborations. CDQ joined forces with Davido and Olamide on the remix of Masterkraft’s hit track “Indomie.” Davido also lent his vocals to CDQ’s tracks “Ko Funny” and “Entertainer.”
With over a decade in the industry, CDQ has carved a distinct identity as one of Nigeria’s most influential street-hop acts, staying true to his roots while enjoying national acclaim. His authenticity and indigenous lyricism were likely what initially caught Davido’s eye.