From the swaggering energy of a teenage hitmaker to the refined touch of an Afrobeats statesman, Davido’s journey through music is a masterclass in evolution.
With each project, he has not only reflected the pulse of the time but also influenced its rhythm. Here’s a dynamic ranking of his five studio albums—each a sonic milestone that tracks the rise of David Adeleke from Omo Baba Olowo to a global icon.
1. Timeless (2023): The Crown Jewel
Timeless isn’t just a name—it’s a statement. This fourth studio album sees Davido at his most polished and poignant, blending Afrobeats, Amapiano, highlife, and dancehall with the ease of a veteran. Collaborations with musical powerhouses like Angelique Kidjo, Skepta, Asake, and The Cavemen added depth and flavor. Critics hailed it as his magnum opus—Clash Magazine called it “an ambitious yet extremely finessed record.” Streaming platforms went into overdrive, shattering Nigerian records on Spotify, Apple Music, and Audiomack. With a Grammy nomination in tow, Timeless is Davido’s most critically and commercially acclaimed work yet.
2. A Good Time (2019): The Global Breakthrough
With A Good Time, Davido didn’t just aim high—he soared. This sophomore album was a celebration of his meteoric rise and international crossover, packed with anthems like “If,” “Fall,” and “Blow My Mind.” Global stars like Chris Brown, Popcaan, and Summer Walker added international star power to a project that balanced lush Afro rhythms with pop finesse. It was a career-defining moment that firmly planted the DMW boss in the global music conversation.
3. A Better Time (2020): The Pandemic Playlist
Released during a time of global uncertainty, A Better Time felt like a declaration of resilience. In this third studio offering, Davido doubled down on global collaborations—Nicki Minaj, Nas, and Lil Baby to name a few—while staying true to his Afrobeats roots. Though reviews were mixed, with some pointing to a lack of cohesion, the album still birthed major hits and showcased Davido’s unrelenting ambition to merge African music with the global mainstream. It was bold, brash, and true to form.
4. Omo Baba Olowo (2012): The Firestarter
This was the spark that lit the flame. Davido’s debut album, Omo Baba Olowo (a Yoruba phrase meaning “Son of a Rich Man”), was a brash, confident entry into a highly competitive industry. With tracks like “Dami Duro” and “Back When,” the album introduced his raw talent, infectious hooks, and flashy style. Though the project drew criticism for its lyrical simplicity and production choices, it was a youthful flex that carved his space in Nigerian pop music—and marked the beginning of a legacy.
5. 5ive (2025): The New Chapter
Still fresh off the press, 5ive is the latest addition to Davido’s discography. Released in April 2025, this project sees him experiment even further, drawing in collaborators like YG Marley, Odumodublvck, and Chike. While the full weight of its impact is still unfolding, early listens suggest a bold attempt to mix nostalgia with future sounds. 5ive feels like a transitional album—one that hints at the next era of Davido’s artistic journey.
The Final Note
From a brash Lagos debut to Grammy-level accolades, Davido’s catalog tells a story of grit, growth, and global ambition. Whether you’re vibing to the high-energy days of Omo Baba Olowo or the layered artistry of Timeless, one thing remains clear: Davido is not just living a good time—he’s creating timeless music.
