Nigerian singer Omah Lay has revealed that he once believed fellow superstar Davido harbored negative feelings toward him, a misunderstanding that nearly prevented their collaboration on the Grammy-nominated hit “With You.”

The revelation came as the duo’s collaborative track earned a nomination in the Best African Music Performance category at the 2026 Grammy Awards, marking a significant milestone for both artists.

Speaking candidly about the origins of their partnership, Omah Lay disclosed that he had harbored misconceptions about Davido’s perception of him, which created initial hesitation when the opportunity for collaboration arose.

“I honestly thought Davido didn’t like me,” Omah Lay admitted, explaining how the misunderstanding developed over time through lack of direct interaction and possibly misconstrued signals in the highly competitive Nigerian music industry.

The young artist did not provide extensive details about what specifically led to his assumption, but suggested that the nature of the music business, with its egos and competitive dynamics, sometimes creates barriers between artists who might otherwise work well together.

However, those concerns were dispelled once the two artists began working together on “With You.” The collaborative process revealed that the perceived tension had been entirely unfounded, with both musicians discovering a natural creative chemistry that translated into the acclaimed track.

“With You” went on to become one of the standout Afrobeats collaborations of the year, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. The song’s fusion of Davido’s signature energy with Omah Lay’s melodic sensibilities resonated with audiences across Africa and internationally.

The track’s Grammy nomination validates the artistic decision to move past any perceived differences and focus on creating quality music. It stands alongside other nominees including Burna Boy’s “Love,” Ayra Starr and Wizkid’s “Gimme Dat,” Tyla’s “Push 2 Start,” and “Hope & Love” by Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin.

Omah Lay’s candid revelation highlights the importance of direct communication and collaboration in breaking down barriers within the creative community. His willingness to share the story has been praised by fans who appreciate the honesty and the positive outcome that resulted from overcoming initial misconceptions.

The young artist has been on a rapid rise in the Nigerian and global music scenes, known for his distinctive sound that blends Afrobeats with alternative and R&B influences. His collaboration with an established star like Davido represents a significant career achievement and demonstrates the collaborative spirit increasingly defining Nigerian music’s global success.

While “With You” ultimately did not win the Grammy, with the award going to South African artist Tyla, the nomination itself represents a major accomplishment for both Davido and Omah Lay, further cementing their positions in the global music landscape.