British monarch King Charles III has recently expressed his admiration for Nigerian Pidgin English, crediting Afrobeats sensation Davido for sparking his interest. In an exclusive interview, the King revealed how Davido’s music played a pivotal role in his newfound love for the language, highlighting the global influence of Nigerian culture and Afrobeats music.
King Charles III’s fascination with Nigerian Pidgin English began with his exposure to Davido’s vibrant music. The monarch shared, “Davido has made me love Pidgin language. I would like to speak it when next I visit Nigeria. Thanks to Afrobeats, it’s becoming more popular around the world.” His comments came as he introduced his specially curated playlist, The King’s Music Room, on Apple Music. The playlist features Davido’s hit song “Kante” featuring Fave, alongside tracks by global icons such as Beyoncé, Bob Marley, and Miriam Makeba. This diverse selection showcases King Charles III’s appreciation for the rich sounds of the Commonwealth.
This isn’t the first time King Charles has engaged with Pidgin English. During a 2018 visit to Nigeria, he famously greeted an audience with “How you dey?” and remarked, “We de try,” in an effort to connect with the local culture. His embrace of Afrobeats and Pidgin English reflects the growing global influence of Nigerian music and language, further cementing Afrobeats as a dominant force in international entertainment. The King’s admiration for Nigerian Pidgin English and Afrobeats serves as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the ability of music to bridge gaps and foster understanding. As Davido and other Nigerian artists continue to make waves on the global stage, their influence extends beyond music, shaping perceptions and fostering connections across cultures.
