Tiwatope Omolara Savage (born February 5, 1980), professionally known as Tiwa Savage, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress. She is one of the most influential and successful female artists in Africa, renowned for her contribution to Afrobeats, R&B, and pop music.
Tiwa Savage gained recognition with her debut album “Once Upon a Time” (2013) and has since released multiple hit songs, collaborated with global artists, and won numerous awards. Her impact on the African music industry has earned her the title “Queen of Afrobeats.”
Early Life and Education
Tiwa Savage was born on February 5, 1980, in Isale Eko, Lagos State, Nigeria. At the age of 11, she moved to London, United Kingdom, where she completed her secondary education.
She later studied Business Administration at the University of Kent before pursuing music professionally. To enhance her musical skills, she attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston, USA, graduating in 2007.
Music Career
Early Career & Songwriting Success (2006–2011)
Before her rise to fame as an artist, Tiwa Savage worked as a backup vocalist and songwriter, collaborating with international artists such as Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, George Michael, and Kelly Clarkson.
She co-wrote “Collard Greens & Cornbread” for Fantasia, which earned a Grammy nomination in 2010.
Breakthrough with “Once Upon a Time” (2013)
In 2012, Tiwa Savage signed with Mavin Records, led by Don Jazzy, marking the beginning of her mainstream career. She released her debut studio album, “Once Upon a Time” (2013), featuring hit singles:
- “Kele Kele Love”
- “Love Me (3x)”
- “Eminado” (feat. Don Jazzy)
The album was a commercial success, earning Tiwa Savage a reputation as one of Africa’s top female artists.
“R.E.D” & Rising Influence (2015–2017)
Her sophomore album, “R.E.D” (2015), further established her dominance in Afrobeats, with hits such as:
- “My Darlin”
- “Standing Ovation” (feat. Olamide)
- “If I Start to Talk” (feat. Dr. Sid)
She became the first female artist to sign an endorsement deal with Pepsi in Africa, increasing her global recognition.
International Success & Universal Music Deal (2018–2020)
In 2018, Tiwa Savage became the first woman to win Best African Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMA).
She signed a record deal with Universal Music Group (UMG) in 2019, leaving Mavin Records to focus on her international career.
Her third studio album, “Celia” (2020), included the hit song “Koroba”, which topped charts across Africa.
“Water & Garri” & Global Collaborations (2021–Present)
Tiwa Savage continued to break boundaries with her 2021 EP “Water & Garri”, featuring collaborations with:
- Brandy (on “Somebody’s Son”)
- Naira Marley
- Rich King
“Somebody’s Son” became a viral sensation on social media, earning Tiwa Savage even greater international recognition.
Discography – Albums & EPs
- Once Upon a Time (2013)
- R.E.D (2015)
- Sugarcane EP (2017)
- Celia (2020)
- Water & Garri EP (2021)
Awards & Achievements
Tiwa Savage has received numerous awards, including:
- MTV Europe Music Awards (Best African Act – First Female Winner, 2018)
- Headies Awards (Multiple wins)
- City People Entertainment Awards
- African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA)
- Nigeria Entertainment Awards
Influence & Legacy
Tiwa Savage is considered a trailblazer for female artists in Afrobeats, paving the way for younger female musicians in Nigeria and across Africa.
She has performed on global stages, including:
- MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA)
- Wireless Festival (UK)
- Coachella (USA)
External Links
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