Tiwa Savage:The Queen of Afrobeats

Tiwa Savage, fondly called the "Queen of Afrobeats," is a powerhouse in the global music industry. From her humble beginnings in Lagos, Nigeria, to dominating international charts, her journey is both inspiring and extraordinary. Let’s dive into the remarkable milestones and moments that make Tiwa Savage a legend in her own right.

1. Early Life in Lagos and London

Tiwa Savage was born Tiwatope Omolara Savage on February 5, 1980, in Isale Eko, Lagos, Nigeria. At the age of 11, her family relocated to London, where she completed her secondary education. Even as a teenager, her musical potential was evident; she played trombone in her school’s orchestra.

2. From Bank Jobs to Berklee College of Music

Before becoming a global sensation, Tiwa Savage earned a degree in accounting from the University of Kent and worked at The Royal Bank of Scotland. However, her passion for music led her to the prestigious Berklee College of Music, where she graduated in 2007 with a degree in professional music.

3. Early Career as a Backup Singer

Tiwa Savage’s music career began as a backup vocalist for some of the world’s biggest stars, including George Michael and Mary J. Blige. Her time working with icons like Chaka Khan, Blu Cantrell, and Whitney Houston honed her skills and prepared her for stardom.

4. Competing in The X Factor UK

In 2006, Tiwa Savage participated in the UK edition of The X Factor, making it to the top 24 contestants. Despite the emotional challenges of the competition, this experience shaped her resilience and determination to succeed in the music industry.

5. Signing with Sony/ATV Music Publishing

In 2009, Tiwa Savage signed a publishing deal with Sony/ATV Music Publishing, giving her the opportunity to write for international artists such as Babyface, Kat Deluna, and Monica. Notably, her work on Fantasia's "Collard Greens & Cornbread" contributed to the song earning a Grammy nomination.

6. A Triumphant Return to Nigeria

Inspired by the rapid growth of the Nigerian music industry, Tiwa Savage returned to her home country in 2012. She signed with Mavin Records, founded by Don Jazzy, and quickly became one of the label’s leading artists.

7. Stellar Debut with Once Upon a Time

Tiwa Savage released her debut album, Once Upon a Time, in 2013. The album featured hit singles like "Kele Kele Love" and "Eminado," earning her critical acclaim and nominations for major awards, including Best Album of the Year at the 2014 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

8. International Recognition and MTV Europe Award Win

Tiwa Savage made history in 2018 by becoming the first woman to win Best African Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards. This groundbreaking achievement solidified her status as a global ambassador for Afrobeats.

9. Universal Music Group and Chart-Topping Albums

In 2019, Tiwa Savage signed with Universal Music Group, a move that expanded her international reach. Her third studio album, Celia, released in 2020, delivered chart-topping singles such as "Koroba" and "Temptation," featuring Sam Smith.

10. Blending Cultures with Water & Garri

Tiwa Savage’s 2021 extended play, Water & Garri, showcased her ability to blend Afrobeat with soulful R&B. The project received widespread acclaim and led to her first North American tour in 2022, further cementing her global appeal.

Why Tiwa Savage’s Story Matters

Tiwa Savage’s journey from a young girl in Isale Eko to an international superstar is a testament to resilience, hard work, and talent. Whether she’s topping charts, winning awards, or empowering the next generation, Tiwa Savage remains a beacon of hope and inspiration.

Her ability to seamlessly combine Nigerian roots with global music trends makes her a unique and enduring force in the industry. Tiwa Savage is not just a musician; she’s a cultural icon.