Nigerian Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has kicked off 2026 with the release of his new single, I Know Who I Be, marking his first solo offering of the year.
The song, released on Friday, features South African producer Jazzwrld and artiste GL_CeeJay, making it Davido’s first recorded collaboration with both acts. The track is now available across major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube Music.
Davido announced the release on his social media pages, where he shared the artwork and clips from the accompanying music video with fans.
Produced with an energetic three-step sound, “I Know Who I Be” blends Afrobeats with South African influences, reflecting the growing musical exchange between artists from both countries. The collaboration also highlights Davido’s continued interest in working with emerging talents across Africa.
The single arrives with a cinematic music video directed by Dammy Twitch and filmed in Nigeria. Rather than focusing only on performance scenes, the visual follows the story of a young man determined to pursue a career in music despite the challenges along the way.
As the storyline unfolds, it gradually mirrors Davido’s own rise from an aspiring artiste to one of Africa’s biggest music exports. The fictional narrative eventually gives way to real life moments, with the singer bringing several people who have played key roles in his career into the spotlight.
One of the video’s standout scenes features Davido and members of his inner circle dressed in black suits against a monochrome backdrop. Among those who appear are his longtime manager, Asa Asika, creative director Black Tycoone, trusted associate Lati and celebrity stylist Hollyandroo.
The video also features appearances by Nigerian artistes Mayorkun and Peruzzi, both of whom were formerly signed to Davido Music Worldwide, as well as rapper Zlatan. Their inclusion reinforces the video’s central message of loyalty, friendship and the relationships that have shaped Davido’s career over the years.
Instead of centring on luxury or spectacle, the visual pays tribute to the people behind Davido’s success, celebrating the support system that has remained with him throughout his journey in the music industry.
The release marks Davido’s return with new music after a relatively quiet start to the year and follows the success of his recent projects, which have further strengthened his position as one of Africa’s most influential artistes.
“I Know Who I Be” by Davido not only opens a new chapter in his 2026 catalogue but also delivers a personal statement on identity, resilience and the importance of the community that has stood beside him throughout his career.
