Music lovers across Nigeria are singing Davido’s praises after the Afrobeat superstar publicly acknowledged and celebrated highlife legend Sir Bright Chimezie, earning widespread admiration for bridging generations in Nigerian music. The tribute, shared on May 18, 2025, has since gone viral, sparking emotional reactions and renewed interest in Chimezie’s legacy.
During an Instagram Live session and subsequent X (formerly Twitter) post, Davido referred to Sir Bright Chimezie as “a living legend whose contributions to our music must never be forgotten.” The 71-year-old highlife maestro, known for his iconic “Zigima Sound” style, responded with gratitude, describing Davido as “a humble king who respects his roots.”
Fans and fellow artists have flooded social media with praise for Davido’s gesture, with many calling it a powerful reminder of the need to celebrate cultural icons while they’re still alive. Clips of the tribute, which included a video of Davido vibing to Chimezie’s classic Ube Nwanne, have racked up millions of views across platforms.
Sir Bright Chimezie, who rose to fame in the late 1970s, is widely credited with fusing highlife, traditional Igbo rhythms, and socially conscious lyrics. His music, often laced with humor and wisdom, remains a staple in Eastern Nigeria and among Igbo communities worldwide. Despite his impact, the veteran has rarely received mainstream recognition from today’s younger stars—until now.
Cultural critics and historians say Davido’s action could help spark a wave of respect for other overlooked legends of Nigerian music. “This is bigger than a shout-out—it’s a cultural bridge,” said Dr. Uche Ikenna, an ethnomusicologist at UNN. “Davido just helped preserve heritage with a single gesture.”
The video tribute has also sparked calls for a national music hall of fame and broader institutional recognition of living legends like Chimezie, Victor Uwaifo, and Onyeka Onwenu. Several fans have suggested a joint concert or collaboration between Davido and Chimezie, which has yet to be confirmed.
As social media continues to buzz, the praise for Davido isn’t just about celebrity hype—it reflects a deep yearning for generational respect, cultural preservation, and a music industry that honors its roots as much as it celebrates innovation.
