What started as a casual video post on Twitter turned into a life-altering career break for Mayorkun, thanks to Nigerian superstar Davido—a man whose Midas touch has reshaped the Nigerian music landscape time and again.
From Teller Desk to Trending Tracks
In 2016, Timothy Mayowa Adewale, then a 22-year-old bank employee, uploaded a short clip of himself covering Davido’s “The Money.” Within hours, his phone buzzed with a direct message from the Afrobeats icon himself.
Davido: “Send me your songs.”
Mayorkun: “They’re a bit rough, but okay.”
A few listens later, Davido made the call that would change everything: “Guy, I’m signing you.”
Mayorkun turned in his resignation at the bank the same week.
Enter DMW: A Hitmaker Is Born
Davido signed Mayorkun to his label DMW (Davido Music Worldwide) and quickly got to work. By April 2016, Mayorkun had released his debut single “Eleko,” which racked up 1 million views on YouTube in just 10 days and charted across the country.
He soon proved he was no one-hit wonder. In 2018, his debut album “The Mayor of Lagos” stormed the charts, peaking at #15 on Billboard’s World Albums and earning a Headies Award for Best R&B/Pop Album.
From Local Star to Sony Signee
In 2021, Mayorkun took his next big leap—signing a major deal with Sony Music West Africa. It was the kind of move many artists only dream of, and while his talent was undeniable, he never forgot who opened the first door.
“Davido didn’t know me from anywhere. He just saw potential and believed,” Mayorkun told the press.
“It’s OBO!”
Mayorkun vividly remembers the moment Davido called him. The voice on the line said: “It is OBO.”
He didn’t need further confirmation. “I just knew my life had changed,” he said in a 2024 interview.
Lessons in Legacy
Mayorkun’s story isn’t just heartwarming—it’s a playbook for aspiring creatives. Here’s what it teaches:
Be bold with your talent – Visibility matters. That one video led to a career.
Value mentorship – Davido offered more than a deal—he provided structure, guidance, and credibility.
Seize momentum – Mayorkun turned early success into lasting industry presence.
Pass it on – Like Davido did for him, Mayorkun now supports emerging acts.
Final Take
In a world where millions chase stardom, Mayorkun’s journey stands out as proof that dreams backed by bold action can collide with destiny. Davido didn’t just help him get a deal—he gave him a stage, a voice, and a legacy to build on.
From one tweet to Sony Music—this is how careers are made when stars align.
