When you mention Afrobeats on the global stage, one name rings louder than most—Tiwa Savage. Known as the Queen of Afrobeats, Tiwa has built a legacy that stretches beyond music.
At Taculia Records, we’re not only interested in her latest album This One Is Personal—we also believe her life story deserves attention, because it shows how determination, talent, and resilience can take an African girl from Lagos to the world.
In this biography, we break down Tiwa Savage’s early life, education, career rise, and achievements in a way that gives fans the full picture of the woman behind the music.
Early Life and Background
Full Name: Tiwatope Omolara Savage
Date of Birth: February 5, 1980
Place of Birth: Isale Eko, Lagos State, Nigeria
Tiwa Savage was born in Isale Eko, one of Lagos’ most culturally rich areas. Like many African children, she grew up surrounded by music, culture, and community spirit. Her family later relocated to London, United Kingdom, where Tiwa was exposed to a different lifestyle and diverse music scenes that would shape her artistry.
At Taculia Records, we often say Tiwa’s Lagos upbringing gave her roots, while London gave her reach.
Education and Musical Training
Tiwa Savage didn’t just rely on natural talent—she built her craft through serious training.
She attended secondary school in London, where she began performing in her school’s orchestra.
Later, she studied Business Administration at the University of Kent, proving she was not just an artist, but also someone who understood the business side of entertainment.
Her big leap came when she gained admission to the Berklee College of Music in Boston, USA, graduating with a degree in Professional Music in 2007.
Taculia Insight: This education gave Tiwa the foundation to not only sing but also compose, perform, and manage her career like a global star.
Early Career and Songwriting in the US
Before returning to Nigeria, Tiwa Savage made waves in the international music industry as a backup singer and songwriter.
She performed with legends like George Michael, Mary J. Blige, and Kelly Clarkson.
She also contributed to songwriting for artists including Fantasia, Kat DeLuna, and Monica.
Her work earned her recognition in the US music scene, but her heart was always set on bringing Afrobeats to the world.
Breakthrough in Nigeria
In 2010, Tiwa Savage returned to Nigeria to build her own career. It was a risky move—many female artists at the time struggled for recognition in a male-dominated industry. But Tiwa was determined.
She signed with Mavin Records in 2012 under Don Jazzy.
Released hit singles like Kele Kele Love and Love Me (3x).
Her debut album, Once Upon a Time (2013), introduced her as a force in Afrobeats.
Taculia Verdict: This was the true beginning of the Queen of Afrobeats era.
Rise to International Fame
Over the next decade, Tiwa Savage went from a Nigerian star to a global icon:
Released albums like R.E.D. (2015), Sugarcane EP (2017), and Celia (2020).
Became the first African female artist signed to Universal Music Group in 2019.
Collaborated with international stars like Beyoncé, Wizkid, Brandy, and Coldplay.
Performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, including Global Citizen Festival and MTV Europe Music Awards.
Her unique sound—a fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, soul, and pop—made her one of the most versatile artists out of Africa.
Major Achievements and Awards
Tiwa Savage’s career is decorated with awards and milestones:
MTV Africa Music Awards – Best Female Artist.
Headies Awards – multiple wins.
MTV Europe Music Award – Best African Act (first woman to win it).
BET Awards Nominee – International Act.
Featured on Beyoncé’s The Lion King: The Gift (2019).
At Taculia Records, we see Tiwa not just as a musician but as a pioneer who has broken barriers for African women in music.
Recent Projects and This One Is Personal
In August 2025, Tiwa Savage released her 15-track album This One Is Personal, an introspective and emotional project recorded across Lagos, London, and Nashville.
This album is proof that even after two decades in the industry, Tiwa Savage is still redefining Afrobeats while staying true to herself.
Tiwa Savage Beyond Music
Tiwa is not only an artist but also:
A businesswoman with brand endorsements (Pepsi, MTN, Tecno, etc.).
A mother, raising her son Jamil Balogun.
A style icon, setting trends in fashion across Africa.
She continues to inspire young African women to chase their dreams fearlessly.
Final Word from Taculia Records
At Taculia Records, we believe Tiwa Savage’s life story proves that success is built on talent, hard work, resilience, and faith. From a Lagos girl with big dreams to a global superstar, Tiwa Savage’s biography is one of Africa’s greatest success stories.
And with her latest album This One Is Personal, she has shown the world that her journey is still unfolding.
Rating (Taculia Records): ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – A life that inspires generations.
