Singer and songwriter Liya has said her decision to part ways with Davido Music Worldwide (DMW) was driven by a desire for personal and artistic growth.
Liya, who became DMW’s first female signing in October 2020, confirmed her exit in 2023 during an Instagram question-and-answer session, telling fans she was no longer with the label but remained loyal to Davido’s wider 30BG movement.
Speaking on a recent episode of Wahala with Josy Anne, the singer said the decision to leave was difficult but necessary.
"I just wanted more for myself, as a person and as an artiste," she said, adding that the experience took a toll on her wellbeing.
Despite public perceptions that she had everything in place, Liya said she felt exhausted and unwell at the time she chose to move on.
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She also addressed criticism she faced while at the label, adding that some observers accused her of being inactive or unmotivated.
"They called me names. People saying, Oh, she’s just lazy. She doesn’t know what she’s doing. They’re just pouring money on her, and she’s not doing anything for over a year or two years. They’d just be like, oh, yeah, you just don’t know what you’re doing. It was my fault," she said.
Liya revealed that the pressure became so intense that she stopped managing her own Instagram account for nearly three years, relying instead on her manager to handle posts and uploads.
Throughout the period, she credited her manager for showing patience and understanding, saying he never forced her to be publicly active when she was struggling.
DMW was founded in 2016 by Davido and has over the years signed and worked with several Nigerian acts, including Mayorkun, Peruzzi, Dremo, Yonda, Idowest, DJ Ecool, Morravey, Logos Olori and Boi Chase.