2Baba has paid tribute to Daddy Showkey, revealing the touching gesture the veteran musician made for him when he was still trying to find his feet in the music industry.

Before 2Baba became one of Africa’s biggest music stars, he was a young artiste trying to make his way through the Nigerian music industry. Now, decades later, the singer has revealed that Daddy Showkey played a memorable role during those early days by giving him his first-ever US dollar.
THE STORY BEHIND THE $100
2Baba shared the story while performing at Daddy Showkey’s 50 Years on Stage celebration at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos. While paying tribute to the veteran entertainer, 2Baba revealed that Daddy Showkey was the first person to ever give him a dollar note, and it was worth $100.For 2Baba, the gesture clearly remained memorable long after his career had taken off.
FROM A YOUNG ARTISTE TO A MUSIC ICON
Today, 2Baba is regarded as one of the most influential figures in Nigerian music, with a career spanning decades. But his tribute offered fans a reminder that successful careers are often shaped by people who offer encouragement and support before an artiste becomes famous. Daddy Showkey’s gesture happened during the early stage of 2Baba’s career, when the value of such support could mean much more than the money itself.
DADDY SHOWKEY CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
The story was shared during a major celebration of Daddy Showkey’s five decades as an entertainer. The event brought together several Nigerian music stars and entertainers to honor the Galala pioneer and celebrate his contribution to Nigerian popular music.2Baba was among the stars who joined the celebration, making his personal tribute one of the memorable moments of the event.
A REMINDER OF WHERE IT ALL STARTED
The revelation has resonated with fans because it shows the relationship between two generations of Nigerian music. Daddy Showkey was already an established figure when 2Baba was beginning his journey, and years later, the younger artiste returned the gesture with public appreciation and respect.
2Baba’s story about the first $100 he ever received has turned a simple financial gesture into a powerful reminder of the people who helped artistes along the way. For Daddy Showkey, it was a moment from decades ago. For 2Baba, it was clearly a memory worth sharing on one of the biggest nights celebrating the veteran’s career.
Do you think today’s music stars should do more to recognize the veterans who helped them at the beginning of their careers?
