5ive—Let’s be honest, every time Davido drops a project, expectations are always sky-high. Obviously, that’s what happens when you’ve been a defining force in Afrobeats for over a decade.
But with 5ive, Davido doesn’t quite hit the mark. The album has its highs, but the lows? Too many to ignore, Theartisteguide reports.
Davido’s 5ive: A beautiful soundscape with little staying power
Right from the jump, 5ive (ft Alhanislam) offers a poetic and powerful intro. It’s layered and symbolic and feels like a declaration of where Davido is at 32—a man reflecting on growth, love, legacy and purpose.
But sadly, that energy isn’t sustained for long. By the time you reach “Anything” and “Be There Still”, cracks begin to show. The beats are passable, but the lyrical depth is paper-thin. It’s as if Davido leans too hard on vibes and forgets substance.
“Be There Still”, despite its message of ambition, comes off more like a flex than a true moment of introspection. The mid-section has some saving graces.
“Offa Me” with Victoria Monét is a standout—her silky vocals elevate the song into sensual territory that feels genuine.
“10 Kilo” might sound like a club track on the surface, but there’s cheeky storytelling under the surface. Davido leans into playful admiration for a lover, and it works.
Easily the best song in the album and hits differently when played on deck, solid beat and brings out the Davido we all know—”my orobo 10 kilo, say this your body make me want to jirate, no fit concentrate.”
On “Awuke”, featuring YG Marley, Davido finally hits a groove. It’s catchy, electric, and definitely built for the stage.
The energy here is infectious, and Marley’s presence gives the track an international vibe and appeal.
Five Album: Davido counts blessings but misses the magic
Likewise, “Holy Water” managed to shine through thanks to Victony, who delivered a solid bridge that puts Davido in the passenger seat for once—and that’s not a bad thing.
However, tracks like “R n B”, “Lately”, and “Tek” suffer from poor arrangement and a lack of chemistry between Davido and his collaborators.
Becky G and Shenseea have the firepower, but it didn’t quite connect. The sounds feel dated, and there’s a sense that the album is trying to be everything at once—without excelling in any lane.
And as for “Funds”, “Lover Boy”, and “CFMF”, they all showed flashes of creativity. But it didn’t linger.
Replay value is questionable, and many of the hooks are forgettable by the time the next track rolls in.
The album ends on a sour note with “With You” (ft Omah Lay), which feels disconnected and uninspired.
So what’s the verdict?
5ive has moments that remind you why Davido is still a global star. He knows how to craft a hit, tap into emotions, and move bodies on the dancefloor.
But too much of this album feels rushed, uneven, or stuck in the past. You get the sense that Davido is at a crossroads—struggling to balance evolution with expectation.
So, if you’re here for vibes, you’ll find them. If you’re here for a cohesive, genre-defining record, you might be disappointed in the 17-track album, to be honest.
And that’s why I’ll gladly rate this very album 6/10.
For me, this isn’t the album that redefines Davido. It’s the one that reminds us he still has some growing to do—even at the top.
