Nigerian Afrobeats star David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, has shared a personal reflection on his experience at the 2026 Grammy Awards, admitting that missing out on the coveted prize was an emotional moment for him.
The singer, who was nominated in the Best African Music Performance category, lost the award to South African artiste Tyla at the ceremony held on Sunday. In the aftermath of the announcement, Davido disclosed that the disappointment weighed heavily on him and initially dampened his enthusiasm for post-award celebrations.
Taking to Instagram, the multiple award-winning musician revealed that he had considered skipping the after-party entirely but was persuaded otherwise by his wife, Chioma Adeleke. According to Davido, her words of encouragement helped him regain perspective and composure.
“I told her we lost again and I didn’t feel like going out,” Davido wrote. “She reminded me to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.” He went on to praise Chioma’s loyalty and support, referring to her as his “ride or die.”
Chioma also responded publicly, reaffirming her belief in her husband and expressing confidence in his journey. In a brief message, she described Davido as “the perfect one,” underscoring the bond between the couple.
The moment has since drawn widespread reactions from fans and fellow artistes, many of whom praised Davido’s openness and the couple’s show of mutual support. Despite the loss, the singer remains one of Africa’s most influential music exports, with a career that continues to command global attention.