Davido’s fifth studio album, 5ive, dropped on April 18, 2025, via Davido Music Worldwide, Columbia Records, and Sony Music Entertainment. This 17-track project is a vibrant “victory lap” for the Afrobeats superstar, blending Nigerian rhythms with pop, R&B, and dancehall, and boasting features from global heavyweights like Chris Brown, Victoria Monét, and YG Marley alongside Nigerian stars like Omah Lay and Odumodublvck. After 13 years in the game, 5ive showcases Davido’s knack for crafting infectious hits but stumbles with predictable lyrics and uneven effort. Drawing from listener insights, fan reactions, and our own spins, here’s an honest take on this Spotify G-rated album.
The Hits Keep Coming
5ive is built for the dancefloor. Lead singles like “Awuke” (feat. YG Marley) and “Funds” (feat. Odumodublvck and Chike) are instant classics. “Awuke” fuses Afrobeats with reggae swagger, perfect for global playlists, while “Funds” channels hustle energy with a clever Brenda Fassie sample and Odumodublvck’s raw bars. “With You” (feat. Omah Lay) is a standout, its heartfelt lyrics and mellow production offering a tender close to the album. “Holy Water” (feat. Musa Keys and Victony) rides an Amapiano wave, elevated by Musa’s production magic, and “Titanium” (feat. Chris Brown) is a high-octane club banger.
Davido shines brightest with collaborators. Tracks like “R&B” (feat. Shenseea and 450), “Tek” (feat. Becky G), and “Lover Boy” (feat. Tayc and Dadju) blend genres seamlessly, with songwriters and producers tightening the hooks and delivery. His effort doubles on these A-list collabs, delivering polished vocals and sharper lyrics that match the star power. Fans can’t stop raving about “Funds,” “With You,” and “Awuke,” and it’s easy to see why these tracks are tailor-made for parties and playlists, cementing Davido’s global appeal.
Where 5ive Falls Short
Despite its highs, 5ive doesn’t always hit the mark. After over a decade as a leading voice in Afrobeats, Davido’s lyrical artistry feels stagnant. His reliance on familiar themes—love, money, and “baddest” brags makes tracks like “Nuttin Dey” and “Anything” predictable and repetitive. The worst offender, “Don’t Know,” is a forgettable low point, with lazy lyrics and a bland beat that drag the album down. Even “CFMF,” a fan favorite for some, leans on generic bravado that lacks depth.
The album’s 17 tracks feel bloated, with mid-tier songs like “Nuttin Dey,” “Lately,” and “Offa Me” (feat. Victoria Monét) failing to leave a mark. “Offa Me” has a slick R&B vibe but lacks the spark of “With You,” and “Lately” tries for introspection but falls flat. The opening poem, “Five By Alhanislam,” feels out of place, setting a heavy tone that clashes with the album’s party energy. Davido’s solo tracks often lack the polish of his collabs, suggesting he thrives most with a strong songwriting team. Critics and some fans agree: a leaner tracklist could’ve made 5ive a knockout.
The Final Verdict
5ive is a fun, cross-cultural Afrobeats album that proves Davido’s star power and knack for global hits. Tracks like “With You,” “Funds,” “Awuke,” and “Titanium” are electric, driven by stellar features and tight production. But predictable lyrics and inconsistent effort keep it from being a classic. After over 13 years, fans might hope for more lyrical growth, but Davido’s strength remains his ability to craft vibes that light up dancefloors worldwide. 5ive is a must-listen for Afrobeats lovers, earning a solid 7.5/10.
Standout Tracks:
- “With You” (feat. Omah Lay) 🔥
- “Funds” (feat. Odumodublvck & Chike)
- “Awuke” (feat. YG Marley)
- “Holy Water” (feat. Musa Keys & Victony)
- “Titanium” (feat. Chris Brown)
- “R&B” (feat. Shenseea & 450)
- “Tek” (feat. Becky G)
- “Lover Boy” (feat. Tayc & Dadju)
- “Be There Still” (a hidden Amapiano gem)
Skippable: “Don’t Know”
Mid-Tier: “Nuttin Dey,” “Lately,” “Offa Me”
Stream 5ive on Spotify, Apple Music, or Boomplay, and let us know your favorite track in the comments!
Reviewed by Mediapeephole, based on listening sessions, fan feedback, and cultural context.
