Nigerian singer-songwriter Davido released his latest single and music video, "I Know Who I Be," on June 26, 2026 [3].
The release signals a strategic shift in the artist's creative direction following a high-profile appearance on the World Cup 2026 global stage [2]. As a five-time Grammy-nominated artist [1], Davido is leveraging this momentum to introduce a new musical era to his international audience.
This track serves as the first single of 2026 [4] for the musician. The song features two artists from South Africa, Jazzwrld, and GL_CeeJay [1]. By collaborating with these performers, Davido continues to bridge the gap between different African musical styles and regional markets.
In a verified interview with Genius, Davido broke down the lyrics and the specific inspiration behind the track [5]. He said the song is intended to share the double meanings within the lyrics and clarify the identity he is projecting in this new phase of his career.
The music video accompanies the audio release, providing a visual component to the narrative of self-discovery and identity. This rollout follows a period of intense global visibility for the singer, as the World Cup appearance placed him before a massive worldwide audience [2].
Davido said the project is the beginning of a new creative era [2]. The focus of this period is centered on authenticity and a deeper exploration of his personal journey through song.
“The track marks the beginning of a new creative era.”
By timing this release shortly after a World Cup 2026 appearance and collaborating with South African artists, Davido is positioning himself not just as a Nigerian star, but as a pan-African representative. The emphasis on a 'new era' suggests a pivot in sound or branding designed to sustain the global visibility gained from the tournament.
