Nigerian music star Davido has once more emphasized the artistic impact of South African producers, noting that his work with JAZZWRLD and GL_Ceejay on his new album Oriadé stemmed from a deep appreciation for their unique sound and musical creativity.
The single, “I Know Who I Be,” showcases the Nigerian artist’s ability to merge his distinct Afrobeat flavor with the vibrant essence of South African electronic music. This blend highlights the increasing collaborative spirit between two of Africa’s significant music hubs.
<p Davido shared his thoughts on this partnership and explained the consistent motivation he finds in collaborating with South African producers.
“I’ve been making music with South Africans from the beginning of my career and they always have a way to create new sounds, from amapiano to Afro-house. I’ve wanted to work with Jazzworx [who rebranded himself as JAZZWRLD in 2025] for a long time since I’m a big fan, so I hit him up. He sent me this track and I put my own Afrobeat twist on it. It was as simple as that.”
For audiences in South Africa, this collaboration serves as a clear indicator of the nation’s expanding role in the international music scene. Historically recognized for house music and kwaito, South Africa has emerged as a key player in shaping modern sounds, with amapiano becoming a global sensation and Afro-house capturing listeners in Europe, North America, and throughout Africa.
JAZZWRLD, who transitioned from his previous name Jazzworx to his current identity in 2025, is known for his ability to create emotionally resonant tracks that blend soulful elements with intricate Afro-house beats. Alongside GL_Ceejay, they have established themselves as notable producers whose work resonates with artists beyond South African borders.
Rather than forcing disparate genres together, “I Know Who I Be” illustrates a seamless integration of Afrobeat and South African dance music. Davido’s lyrical flow complements the ambient production, resulting in a track suited for both streaming services and dance floors.
This collaboration also mirrors a wider pattern in African music, where geographic distinctions are diminishing. Nigerian artists actively seek South African production while musicians from South Africa increasingly partner with West African stars, crafting tunes that connect with audiences across the continent.
For Davido, the creation process was refreshingly simple. Instead of engaging in prolonged studio discussions or complicated arrangements, the collaboration began with a brief outreach to a admired producer. After receiving the instrumental from JAZZWRLD, he infused his signature Afrobeat style, allowing both musical influences to thrive without overshadowing one another.
As Oriadé makes its way to global audiences, “I Know Who I Be” exemplifies how collaboration is a significant asset in African music. It represents a fusion of cultures, genres, and creative visions that is continuously expanding the continent’s artistic boundaries.
With artists like Davido and producers such as JAZZWRLD and GL_Ceejay pushing the envelope, the future of African music appears increasingly collaborative and global in scope.
