Tiwa Savage, fondly called the “Queen of Afrobeats,” is one of Nigeria’s most influential female musicians, a singer-songwriter whose voice, artistry, and resilience have placed her on the global stage. Her journey from a young girl in Lagos to an international superstar is a story of talent, persistence, and groundbreaking achievements.
Early Life and Education
Tiwatope Savage was born on February 5, 1980, in Isale Eko, Lagos State, Nigeria. At the age of 11, she moved with her family to London, United Kingdom, where she was exposed to diverse music genres, from R&B to pop. Her love for music flourished, and she began singing in church choirs and school bands.
Tiwa’s passion led her to study Business Administration at the University of Kent before attending the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, USA, where she honed her skills in music theory, performance, and production.
Career Beginnings
Before becoming a household name in Africa, Tiwa Savage built an impressive résumé in the international music scene. She worked as a backup vocalist for global icons like Mary J. Blige, George Michael, Kelly Clarkson, and Whitney Houston. She also participated in the UK edition of The X Factor in 2006, gaining valuable exposure.
Her breakthrough came as a songwriter, penning tracks for artists such as Monica and Fantasia Barrino, and even co-writing “Collard Greens & Cornbread” for Fantasia, which earned a Grammy nomination.
Return to Nigeria and Breakthrough
In 2010, Tiwa Savage made the bold decision to return to Nigeria to contribute to the growing Afrobeats movement. She signed with Mavin Records in 2012, joining Don Jazzy’s powerhouse label. Her debut studio album, “Once Upon a Time” (2013), was a commercial and critical success, featuring hits like Kele Kele Love, Eminado, and Love Me (3x).
Her blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and pop, coupled with her commanding stage presence, quickly made her one of Africa’s biggest music stars.
Global Recognition
Tiwa Savage’s influence soon reached far beyond Nigeria. In 2018, she became the first African female artist to win the MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act. She signed a recording deal with Universal Music Group in 2019, marking a new era in her career.
Her third studio album, “Celia” (2020), received widespread acclaim, with Billboard describing it as one of the year’s best albums. The project featured collaborations with international stars like Sam Smith, Stefflon Don, and Davido.
Awards and Achievements
Over the years, Tiwa Savage has won numerous awards, including:
- MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act (2018)
- Channel O Music Video Awards
- The Headies Awards
- BET Awards nominations
She has performed at some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Global Citizen Festival and the coronation concert of King Charles III in 2023.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Beyond music, Tiwa Savage is an advocate for women’s rights and empowerment in Africa. She uses her platform to inspire young girls to pursue their dreams regardless of societal limitations. Despite facing public challenges in her personal life, she remains a symbol of resilience and strength.
Legacy and Influence
Tiwa Savage has broken countless barriers for African women in music. Her artistry has influenced a new generation of African female artists, proving that with talent, dedication, and vision, the world is within reach.
From Lagos to London to Los Angeles, Tiwa Savage’s story is a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and self-belief. She continues to redefine Afrobeats, cementing her place as one of Africa’s greatest musical exports.
