Dare Art Alade, commonly known as Darey, was born on February 9, 1982. He is a Nigerian multi-platinum Afro R&B singer, songwriter, record producer, and philanthropist. At 42 years old, Darey is the youngest of five children. Darey is known for his hit song titled "Pray for me"

Darey

Early Life

Darey attended CMS Grammar School in Lagos before pursuing a degree in Music at the University of Lagos. He furthered his studies at the Music Society of Nigeria (MUSON), focusing on music theory, voice, and classical piano. His father’s extensive jazz music collection and the concerts he attended introduced Darey to the world of entertainment.

Career

Darey’s diverse career includes roles as a disc jockey, TV presenter, master of ceremonies, entertainment consultant, voice-over artist, performing/recording artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.

While in school, Darey was scouted by Cool FM while performing at clubs, balancing his time between being a presenter on Cool FM and his studies. His experience at Cool FM provided him with advanced knowledge in radio presentation, production, and marketing. He soon became a regular on the hit African entertainment show, *Y'Hello*.

Darey gained prominence in 2004 by placing third in the first African edition of the TV series *Project Fame*. This opportunity allowed him to perform before over 100 million viewers and led to a recording deal with Sony BMG Africa, although it was never realized.

In 2006, Darey released his debut album, *Me 2 U*, on Storm Records. The album featured "Original Naija," which became the theme song for the inaugural season of *Big Brother Nigeria*.

He hosted *Project Fame West Africa* in 2008 and later hosted the Future Awards and the SMVAs. His second album, *unDAREYted*, released in 2009 under his label Soul Muzik, featured the hit R&B song "Not the Girl." The album attracted attention from American music legend Dick Griffey, who intended to produce Darey’s third album before his passing.

Darey completed his third studio album in 2010 and performed a special set for Nigeria's 50th Independence Anniversary at the request of the then-President.

In 2011, Darey released *Double Darey*, a twin album under Soul Muzik, and followed it with hit singles and music videos, including "Sisi Eko Remix." 

In 2013, Darey and Soul Muzik produced *Love Like a Movie*, Nigeria’s largest love concert, which became an annual event at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, featuring guests like Kim Kardashian and Ciara. He also released the music video for "Asiko" and a new single, "Fever," produced by Harmony.

His 2015 hit "Pray for Me" was inspired by Paul Okoye’s story. He released his fifth video album, *Naked*, in October 2015.

Over the years, Darey has performed with global music icons like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Lionel Richie, John Legend, and T-Pain and has engaged with world leaders such as Bill Clinton and Kofi Annan.

To empower African youth, Darey established the Art Foundation to promote music education in primary and secondary schools across Africa. He supports various philanthropic causes, including cancer charities, community and sports development, and other foundations.

He serves as a judge on *Nigerian Idol*, and has hosted the Gulder Ultimate Search and Glo *Naija Sings*. He is also the Chief Creative Director for Livespon, an event production digital agency and media company.

Personal Life

Darey is married to Deola Ayeni Art-Alade, and they have two children. Known for his meticulous approach to his craft, Darey is regarded as one of the finest musicians and a perfectionist in his business dealings. Outside of music, he enjoys playing basketball and video games.

Awards

- Award for Musical Excellence for *Me 2 U*

- Best Picture/Musical Video for "Escalade" at the Awards for Musical Excellence in Nigeria (2006)

- Best R&B Video in Africa by Channel O Music Video Award (2006)

- Best Male Video for "Not the Girl" at the Channel O Music Video Awards (2009)

- Best R&B Video for "Not the Girl" at Nigeria Music Video Awards (2009)

- Best Use of Costume for "More" at Nigeria Music Video Awards (2009)

- Video of the Year for "More" at Nigeria Music Video Awards (2009)

- Best Music Video of the Year for "Not the Girl" at Nigeria Entertainment Awards (2009)

- Recording of the Year for "The Way You Are" at the Headies Awards (2011)

- Best R&B Single for "The Way You Are" at the Headies Awards (2011)

- Best Male Artiste for "Pray for Me" at the All Africa Music Awards (2015)

- Best R&B Single for "Pray for Me" at the Headies Awards (2016)

- Best Recording of the Year for "Pray for Me" at the Headies Awards (2016)

Net Worth

His net worth is not publicly available.

Social Media

Instagram: @dareynow

Facebook: Darey Art Alade