If there is one word Daapo would use to describe himself, it is “creative.” But behind that simple description is an artist with a clear vision—one rooted in originality, his background, a distinct musical identity and the ambition to take his sound to listeners across the world.

Formerly known as Sir Derick, the artist recently embraced the name Daapo, marking what he sees as an important new chapter in his musical journey.

According to him, the decision was driven by a desire for greater originality and a stronger connection to his roots. “I wanted more originality and to stay connected with my background,” he explains. For Daapo, the name change was not just about adopting a new stage name.

As his career continues to progress, he believes his identity, brand and sound must evolve with it. The move towards Daapo had always been part of his bigger plan—to become more original and build an identity that truly represents the artist he is becoming.

A SOUND INSPIRED BY THE GREAT, BUT STILL HIS OWN Daapo draws inspiration from some of Nigeria’s biggest and most influential music stars, including Olamide, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido and D’banj. When it comes to the sound he is building, he also points to artists such as Asake and Seyi Vibez as important influences. What particularly inspires him is their ability to embrace indigenous sounds, rhythm and language while still connecting with audiences around the world.

To Daapo, their success is proof that an artist does not have to abandon their roots to think globally. Music can be versatile. Different languages, genres and sounds can be fused together while still creating something capable of travelling beyond borders.

However, despite those influences, Daapo is determined to maintain his own identity. While he admits that the artists he listens to have inspired aspects of his music, he believes he still possesses a distinct sound and unparalleled creativity. He also listens to foreign music and incorporates elements of different sounds into his creative process, continuing to explore new possibilities while developing his own musical direction.

THE PERSONAL CONNECTION BEHIND “HIGHER” Daapo has released several songs he considers favourites, but if he had to choose just one, his pick would be “Higher,” the intro to ADEDAPO The Album. The reason is deeply personal.His mother’s vocals appear on the song, making it more than just another track in his catalogue. It is a record that carries an emotional connection and a piece of his personal story—something that makes Higher especially meaningful to him.

DREAMING BIG Daapo’s ambitions are as bold as the artists he hopes to one day work with. Asked about his dream collaborations, he mentions several names, including Olamide, Asake, Wizkid, Burna Boy and Tems. There is also one producer he would particularly love to share a studio session with: Pheelz. And when it comes to performing, Daapo has his eyes set on some of the biggest stages in the world. One venue at the top of his list is Tottenham Hotspur Stadium—another reflection of his desire to take his music far beyond familiar territory. MORE THAN JUST THE MUSIC Away from the studio, there is another side of Daapo that many of his fans may not know. The artist says he can cook several dishes that would probably surprise his supporters.

But while there may be hidden talents outside music, his biggest motivation remains firmly connected to his goals. Daapo wants his music to be heard globally, build a solid and loyal fanbase, do something meaningful with his talent—and, in his own words, make “a lot of Kaluba.”

As 2026 continues, his mission is clear: to reach more listeners around the world and establish a strong fanbase that will grow alongside his career. The transition from Sir Derick to Daapo represents more than a new name. It represents an artist stepping further into his own originality, embracing his background and refining a sound that he hopes will eventually connect with audiences across the globe. For Daapo, this is not simply a rebrand. It is the beginning of a bigger story.