Tiwa Savage Biography: Early Life, Songs, Albums, Career, Awards & FAQs
Introduction
Tiwa Savage, born Tiwatope Omolara Savage on February 5, 1980, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman who has become one of Africa’s most influential female artistes. Known as the “Queen of Afrobeats,” she has played a pivotal role in taking African music to the global stage, blending Afrobeat, R&B, pop, and soul in her sound. Tiwa Savage is not just a household name in Nigeria but also a global superstar whose music continues to break barriers.
Early Life and Education
Tiwa Savage was born in Isale Eko, Lagos State, Nigeria, but relocated to London, United Kingdom with her family at the age of 11. Growing up in London exposed her to diverse music cultures and gave her the opportunity to nurture her passion for music. She attended The University of Kent, where she studied Business Administration, and later pursued her passion for music at the Berklee College of Music, Boston, USA, one of the most prestigious music schools in the world.
Music Beginnings
Before rising to fame as a solo artiste, Tiwa Savage worked as a backup vocalist for international stars like George Michael, Mary J. Blige, Kelly Clarkson, and Whitney Houston. This early experience shaped her artistry and gave her exposure to the global music industry.
Career Breakthrough
Tiwa Savage returned to Nigeria in 2010 to contribute to the rapidly growing Afrobeats scene. She signed a record deal with Mavin Records, led by Don Jazzy, and quickly rose to fame with hits like “Kele Kele Love” and “Love Me (3x).”
Her debut studio album, “Once Upon a Time” (2013), was a massive success, featuring hit singles like Eminado, Folarin, and Olorun Mi. She followed it up with “R.E.D” (2015) and “Sugarcane” EP (2017), solidifying her place as one of Africa’s leading artistes.
In 2018, she became the first female African artist to win the MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act.
International Success
Tiwa Savage’s global recognition skyrocketed when she signed a management and publishing deal with Roc Nation (owned by Jay-Z) in 2016. Later in 2019, she signed an exclusive recording deal with Universal Music Group (UMG), joining the ranks of international stars.
Her 2020 album “Celia” received worldwide acclaim and was listed by Time Magazine as one of the best albums of the year. She has collaborated with several global stars, including Beyoncé (on The Lion King: The Gift), Brandy, Sam Smith, and Davido.
Acting and Other Ventures
Apart from music, Tiwa Savage has also showcased her acting skills. She featured in the MTV series Shuga and has made cameo appearances in Nollywood productions. She is also a successful entrepreneur, launching endorsements with major brands such as Pepsi, MTN, Maggi, Pampers, and Tecno Mobile.
Tiwa Savage Biography: Early Life, Songs, Albums, Career, Awards & FAQs
Discography
Studio Albums
- Once Upon a Time (2013)
- Features: Eminado, Folarin, Kele Kele Love, Olorun Mi
- Label: Mavin Records
- R.E.D (Romance, Expression, Dance) (2015)
- Features: My Darling, Standing Ovation (ft. Olamide), If I Start to Talk (ft. Dr SID)
- Label: Mavin Records
- Celia (2020)
- Features: Dangerous Love, Koroba, Temptation (ft. Sam Smith), Park Well (ft. Davido)
- Label: Universal Music Group
Extended Plays (EPs)
- Sugarcane (2017)
- Notable songs: All Over, Malo (ft. Wizkid), Get It Now
- Water & Garri (2021)
- Notable songs: Somebody’s Son (ft. Brandy), Ade Ori, Tales by Moonlight (ft. Amaarae)
Selected Hit Singles
- Kele Kele Love (2010)
- Love Me (3x) (2011)
- Eminado (2013)
- All Over (2017)
- Malo (ft. Wizkid & Spellz) (2017)
- 49-99 (2019)
- Koroba (2020)
- Somebody’s Son (ft. Brandy) (2021)
- Stamina (ft. Ayra Starr & Young Jonn) (2023)
Awards and Achievements
- MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act (2018)
- Nigeria Entertainment Awards, Channel O Music Video Awards, and AFRIMA Awards
- Multiple nominations at the Headies Awards
- Named among the BBC 100 Women (2017) and Billboard Women in Music Honorees (2023)
Personal Life
Tiwa Savage was married to Tunji “Tee Billz” Balogun in 2013, and together they have a son, Jamil Balogun (Jam Jam). Though the marriage ended in 2016, Tiwa Savage continues to balance her role as a mother and a global superstar.
Legacy and Impact
Tiwa Savage is widely regarded as a trailblazer in Afrobeats and African pop culture. She has opened doors for other female artistes and remains an inspiration to millions across the globe. Her style, talent, and resilience have earned her the title of the Queen of Afrobeats.
Tiwa Savage Biography: Early Life, Songs, Albums, Career, Awards & FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Tiwa Savage
Who is Tiwa Savage?
Tiwa Savage is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur often referred to as the Queen of Afrobeats.
When was Tiwa Savage born?
She was born on February 5, 1980, in Lagos State, Nigeria.
Where did Tiwa Savage grow up?
She grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, but moved to London, UK at the age of 11.
What is Tiwa Savage’s educational background?
She studied Business Administration at the University of Kent and later attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston, USA.
What was Tiwa Savage’s first hit song?
Her first major hit was “Kele Kele Love” (2010), which gained massive airplay in Nigeria and beyond.
Has Tiwa Savage won international awards?
Yes, she was the first female African artist to win the MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act in 2018.
Who has Tiwa Savage collaborated with internationally?
She has worked with Beyoncé, Brandy, Sam Smith, Chris Martin, Davido, Wizkid, and many more.
Is Tiwa Savage married?
No, Tiwa Savage is currently not married. She was previously married to Tunji Balogun (Tee Billz) but they divorced in 2016.
Does Tiwa Savage have children?
Yes, she has a son named Jamil Balogun (Jam Jam), born in 2015.
What record label is Tiwa Savage signed to?
Tiwa Savage is signed to Universal Music Group (UMG).
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