Early in my journey managing independent talent rosters and analyzing record label signing models across Africa, I learned that signing a brand-new artist carries both immense opportunity and distinct operational pressures. I watched this dynamic unfold firsthand in late 2020 when Davido Music Worldwide decided to expand its male-dominated roster.
When an established empire signs its first female act, the entire industry shifts its attention toward how the label will structure her development, brand strategy, and release rollout. That exact moment arrived for DMW when they decided to introduce their very first lady to the world.
Who Is DMW First Female Artist?
The first female artist signed to DMW (Davido Music Worldwide) is Liya, whose real name is Abdulsalam Suliyat Modasola. She was officially signed to the record label on October 2, 2020, by label chief David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido. Her signing marked a major milestone in DMW history, earning her the official titles of DMW First Lady and 30BG First Lady.
Born in 1999 in Lagos, Nigeria, Liya studied Yoruba Language and Linguistics at the University of Ilorin before breaking into the professional music scene. Her journey into DMW began when she played a selection of her unreleased songs for Davido, including her breakout track Melo. Impressed by her unique vocal texture and afro-fusion delivery, Davido immediately invited her and her management to join him on a trip to Abuja, announcing her signing via Twitter shortly after and bringing her under the global label umbrella.
To gain a thorough understanding of the entire corporate layout, history, and executive operations of the label, explore our detailed breakdown of the DMW record label.
Liya’s Career Highlights and DMW Discography
Following her official announcement in October 2020, Liya released her maiden single under DMW titled Melo. The official music video, directed by Dammy Twitch and featuring a cameo appearance by Davido, was released on December 8, 2020, instantly positioning her as an artist to watch across the West African music landscape.
In December 2020, media outlets like Guardian Life Magazine named Liya among the top 10 Nigerian artists to watch in 2021. Building on that momentum, she announced her debut extended play titled Alari, which officially dropped on August 20, 2021, under the DMW banner. The EP showcased her vocal range and cultural influences, leading to a prestigious nomination at The Headies in 2022 for Best Vocal Performance (Female). She also released visual projects for her popular single Adua, later dropping a high-profile remix featuring vocal icon Simi in 2022.
If you want to understand how other notable artists and key team members fit into the label hierarchy, read about whether Mayorkun is still signed to DMW.
Liya’s Transition and Departure from DMW
After nearly three years under the label imprint, Liya officially confirmed her departure from Davido Music Worldwide in early 2023 to pursue independent career growth. Managing artist transitions amicably is a critical aspect of label administration, and her exit allowed her to reshape her creative direction while building an independent brand catalog.
For independent label executives and artists, watching her tenure at DMW highlights the importance of aligning creative freedom, mental wellness, and long-term release strategies during major label deals. Her journey remains a landmark moment for female representation within major Nigerian record imprints.
To analyze how other prominent figures within the collective handle their ongoing label relationships, check out our report on whether Peruzzi is still in DMW.
3 Actionable Lessons for Female Artists and Emerging Record Labels
My years of structuring talent models and tracking record label operations have proven that signing to a major platform requires strategic execution. Here are three actionable strategies every independent artist and label executive can take away from Liya’s story:
- Prepare a High-Impact Master Catalog Before Meeting Executives: Liya landed her deal because she had finished, high-quality songs like Melo ready to play on the spot. Always keep fully mixed, original demos accessible so you can capitalise on unexpected meeting opportunities instantly.
- Leverage Flagship Branding Early in Your Rollout: When joining a high-profile label, lean into distinct personal branding immediately. Capitalise on label marketing channels early to build a loyal direct-to-fan audience that stays with you even if you eventually go independent.
- Prioritise Vocal Identity and Cultural Authenticity: Liya distinguished herself within a heavily populated label by blending her traditional Yoruba linguistics background with modern afro-fusion sound structures. Developing a unique vocal identity ensures you stand out regardless of roster size.
To learn more about original team affiliations and early label members who laid the foundation alongside Davido, read our article on who is Deekay DMW to Davido.
You can also explore the crucial operational roles played by key team members by reading our profile on who is Israel DMW to Davido.
Key Milestones of DMW First Female Artist
| Milestone Event | Date / Timeline | Career Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Official DMW Signing | October 2, 2020 | Became the very first female artist signed to the DMW imprint. |
| Debut Single “Melo” Released | December 8, 2020 | Launched her career with an official video directed by Dammy Twitch. |
| Debut EP “Alari” Drop | August 20, 2021 | Released her 6-track debut body of work under DMW. |
| Headies Nomination | May 2022 | Nominated for Best Vocal Performance (Female) for “Alari”. |
| Transition to Independent Status | Early 2023 | Parted ways with DMW to pursue independent releases. |
Examining Liya’s journey as DMW’s first female signee shows how powerful major label backing can be for launching an artist into global visibility. At the same time, it highlights the importance of personal growth, authentic artistry, and long-term strategy in navigating the music business.
What are your favorite tracks from Liya’s era under DMW? Leave a comment below, share your thoughts on female representation in Nigerian record labels, and let us get the conversation going!
