Israel DMW Stands Firmly Behind Davido Following Grammy Disappointment
In the wake of the 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony held on Sunday, February 1st in Los Angeles, Davido's loyal personal aide and logistics manager, Israel DMW, has publicly defended the Nigerian music superstar after his loss in the Best African Music Performance category. The highly anticipated award went to South African singer Tyla for her track Push 2 Start, leaving Davido and his extensive fanbase disappointed despite high expectations.
Grammy Outcome Sparks Loyal Defense from Davido's Inner Circle
Taking to his official Instagram platform, Israel DMW delivered an impassioned message of support for his employer, declaring "My Oga Still Remains the Best" in a clear reference to Davido's enduring status within the African music industry. The aide emphasized that awards and trophies do not define an artist's true impact or legacy, particularly for someone of Davido's caliber who has consistently delivered chart-topping hits for over a decade.
Israel DMW reassured global fans that more exceptional music would continue flowing from the Afrobeats icon, promising that Davido's creative output would remain unaffected by the Grammy setback. He pointed to Davido's extensive catalogue of back-to-back successes as evidence that his reputation as a premier hitmaker remains completely untouched by the awards ceremony outcome.
Competitive Category Highlights African Music's Global Rise
The Best African Music Performance category at the 2026 Grammys featured an impressive lineup of continental talent, with Davido nominated alongside fellow Nigerian heavyweights Burna Boy, Wizkid, Ayra Starr, and Omah Lay. Tyla's victory with Push 2 Start represented a significant milestone for the South African artist, who has been steadily gaining international recognition in recent years.
Despite the loss, Davido's nomination itself marked another career milestone for the artist, reinforcing his position as one of Africa's most prominent musical voices on the global stage. The ceremony highlighted the growing diversity and competitive nature of African music representation at international awards shows.
Fan Reactions Reflect Mixed Emotions Across Social Media
Following Israel DMW's public show of support, Nigerian social media users expressed a range of reactions to Davido's Grammy outcome. Many fans echoed the sentiment that awards don't define artistic greatness, pointing to legendary artists like Tupac Shakur and R. Kelly who achieved iconic status without Grammy recognition.
One supporter commented: "That is the spirit.. Nicki no get Grammy, R Kelly no Grammy, Tupac no Grammy. Just give us good music. YOU WILL GET IT WHEN YOU LEAST EXPECT IT."
Another fan offered encouragement: "Delay is not Denial. DAVID GRAMMY WILL RUN AFTER YOU ONE DAY AND IT WILL SHAKE THE WORLD, your hardwork will not go unnoticed."
Some reactions took a more analytical approach, with one user suggesting: "Let Davido listen to that Tyla song to really know why they choose her against him because music is more than just putting beat together."
Industry Figures Join in Support Following Awards Ceremony
Other notable figures within Nigeria's entertainment industry have also voiced their support for Davido following the Grammy results. Socialite and emerging artist Cubana Chiefpriest shared photographs with Davido while making bold claims about external pressures facing the singer. He encouraged Davido to continue creating exceptional music, asserting that true artistic excellence transcends award show recognition.
The collective response from Davido's team and supporters underscores a broader perspective within the African music community: while international recognition through awards like the Grammys represents important validation, an artist's true legacy is built through consistent musical excellence, cultural impact, and dedicated fan support that spans continents.
As the Afrobeats movement continues to gain global momentum, moments like these highlight both the competitive nature of international recognition and the resilient spirit of African artists who continue pushing creative boundaries regardless of award outcomes.