When Davido appointed Cobhams Asuquo as the Music Director for his 5ive Alive World Tour, it sent ripples through the Nigerian music industry.
The move was unexpected, not because Cobhams lacks the skill, but because he belongs to a rare breed of classically trained, soulful virtuosos not typically associated with mainstream Afrobeats superstars.
Yet, for those familiar with Cobhams’ pedigree, this decision made perfect sense. From intimate unplugged sessions to grand orchestral performances, Cobhams has consistently delivered breathtaking live experiences that blend technical brilliance with emotional depth.
As anticipation builds for Davido’s upcoming world tour, let’s revisit 5 unforgettable Cobhams Asuquo live performances that prove why this is one of the smartest artistic decisions Davido has made in his career.
1. Asa’s live in Lagos concert (2017)
One of the standout moments in Nigerian live music history was Asa’s 2017 Live in Lagos concert, and at the heart of that impeccable sonic experience was Cobhams Asuquo, who served as Music Director and pianist.
His arrangement of classics like Bibanke, Jailer, and Be My Man elevated Asa’s acoustic ballads into full-bodied, emotionally charged anthems. The live instrumentation was crisp, the vocal harmonies flawless, and Cobhams’ piano interludes added a warmth that left the audience mesmerized.
Davido’s global tour audiences are craving authenticity and sonic quality. Cobhams’ ability to translate studio tracks into immersive live renditions will be key in giving fans something fresh beyond the typical DJ-backed sets.
2. Cobhams Asuquo live in concert (2018)
In 2018, Cobhams headlined his own live show at Terra Kulture, Lagos, a night that doubled as a masterclass in live performance. The multi-instrumentalist moved effortlessly from piano to vocals, delivering tracks like Ordinary People and One Hit with a rawness and vulnerability rarely seen in the Afrobeats-dominated scene.
The evening also featured guest performances from the likes of Falz and Timi Dakolo, all backed by Cobhams’ meticulously curated live band.
Davido’s tour needs someone who understands both crowd dynamics and live sound engineering. Cobhams’ command over pacing, set transitions, and crowd engagement will help craft a seamless, high-energy, yet emotionally diverse tour experience.
3. Rhythm Unplugged (2014 Guest appearance)
Though primarily a soul and R&B composer, Cobhams stunned Afrobeats fans when he made a surprise appearance at Rhythm Unplugged 2014, accompanying Banky W on Strong Ting and Yes/No. In a show typically dominated by thumping DJ sets, his presence behind the keyboard and his subtle vocal harmonies reminded the crowd that good live music cuts across genres.
Cobhams has experience integrating live music sensibilities into Afropop spaces without disrupting the party vibe, a crucial skill for Davido’s festival-heavy, high-energy world tour dates.
4. Nigeria’s 60th Independence Celebration Concert (2020 Virtual Performance)
During Nigeria’s 60th Independence celebrations, when most artists leaned on pre-recorded performances due to the pandemic, Cobhams delivered a stirring, live-streamed acoustic set that featured reimagined versions of classic patriotic songs like Nigeria We Hail Thee and Great Nation. His performance was a standout moment, lauded for its simplicity, technical brilliance, and emotional resonance.
A world tour will require moments of introspection and national pride, especially at stops with large African diaspora communities. Cobhams can seamlessly insert culturally rich, emotive segments into Davido’s otherwise adrenaline-fueled sets.
5. MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA) 2016 Opening Act (with Waje & MI Abaga)
One of Cobhams’ most celebrated international live moments was his performance at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2016 in Johannesburg, where he shared the stage with Waje and MI Abaga for a medley celebrating African unity. His live arrangement for the performance fused Afro-soul, hip-hop, and orchestral elements, earning a standing ovation from a pan-African audience.
Davido’s tour will hit major international venues where diverse audiences expect global-standard performances. Cobhams’ experience crafting cross-genre, cross-cultural live performances makes him the ideal Music Director for a tour of this magnitude.
In conclusion, Cobhams Asuquo’s track record in live music direction isn’t just impressive, it’s elite. Whether orchestrating intimate ballads or commanding stadium stages, he’s shown an unmatched ability to tailor performances to mood, audience, and moment.
For Davido, whose live shows have often leaned on raw energy rather than intricate musicality, this collaboration promises to deliver a tour experience that balances adrenaline with artistry.
If these past performances are anything to go by, the 5ive Alive World Tour might just redefine what Afrobeats concerts should sound like on the world stage.
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