Darey Art Alade

Darey Art Alade Famed by his stage name Darey, Dare Art Alade is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, OAP (On-Air Personality), and entrepreneur. He is one of the most respected figures in the Nigerian entertainment industry, known for his distinctive vocal talent and his versatility across music, television, and radio. Darey is also recognized for founding Livespot 360, a creative marketing and entertainment company. Early Life and Education Dare Art Alade was born on February 9, 1982, in Lagos, Nigeria. He is the son of the legendary Nigerian jazz pioneer and entertainer, Art Alade, who significantly influenced his early exposure to music and performance. Darey grew up surrounded by the arts and began singing early. For his tertiary education, he attended the University of Lagos, where he studied music. He later honed his musical skills further at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, focusing on professional music and performance. Career Progression and Major Achievements Darey’s music career officially began in the early 2000s, but his major breakthrough came in 2004 when he participated in the first season of the reality music show, Project Fame Academy, where he emerged as a finalist. This platform launched his professional career. Following his reality show success, he signed with Storm Records and released his debut album, *From Me 2 U*, in 2006, which included the hit track "Escalade." His second album, *unDAREYted*, followed in 2009, featuring the immensely popular single "Not the Girl," which earned him multiple awards and nominations. The album was praised for its fusion of R\&B, pop, and traditional African sounds. A pivotal moment in Darey’s career was the release of his 2013 album, *Double Dare*, a double disc project that showcased his expansive musical range. He has received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Headies Award for Best R\&B/Pop Album and Best Vocal Performance. Beyond his recording career, Darey is celebrated for his role as a creative director and host of major live events. He founded Livespot 360, which has produced some of the biggest entertainment spectacles in Nigeria, notably "Love Like a Movie," an annual concert series that has featured performances by international acts like Kim Kardashian, Kelly Rowland, and Ciara. Notable Works and Current Status Darey’s most notable works include the soulful ballad "Not the Girl," "Asiko," and "Pray for Me." In recent years, he has focused heavily on his entrepreneurial ventures, particularly scaling Livespot 360 into a leading marketing and entertainment conglomerate. He continues to release music, often blending contemporary Afrobeats with his signature R&B style. He has also maintained a prominent presence as an executive producer and creative consultant for major projects across Africa, solidifying his status as an influential figure both in front of and behind the scenes of the Nigerian entertainment industry.