When the world mentions the “Queen of Afrobeats,” one name dominates the conversation—Tiwa Savage.
But how did a girl from Lagos rise to become the global female face of Afrobeats?
At Taculia Records, we’re not just fans—we study the moves, the milestones, and the magic that made Tiwa Savage who she is today.
This article breaks down the story of how Tiwa Savage became the Queen of Afrobeats, inspiring a whole generation of artists and solidifying her place in music history.
Early Influences: From Lagos to London
Born in Isale Eko, Lagos State, Tiwa Savage was immersed in Nigerian culture from childhood. But her relocation to London at age 11 exposed her to R&B, soul, and pop.
This cross-cultural upbringing gave her a unique blend of African rhythms and Western musicality—the foundation of her Afrobeats sound today.
Building Her Craft: Education and Training
Unlike many artists who rely only on raw talent, Tiwa took a disciplined approach:
University of Kent (Business Administration): gave her business acumen.
Berklee College of Music, USA: sharpened her skills in songwriting and performance.
At Taculia Records, we see this as a key step—Tiwa invested in both the art and the business of music. That’s part of why she still stands strong today.
Breaking Through as a Songwriter and Backup Vocalist
Before claiming her own spotlight, Tiwa Savage was already making waves internationally:
Sang backup for George Michael, Mary J. Blige, Kelly Clarkson, and Whitney Houston.
Wrote songs for Monica, Fantasia Barrino, and Kat DeLuna.
This behind-the-scenes work gave her industry experience and confidence to chase her solo career.
Return to Nigeria and the Mavin Era
In 2010, Tiwa Savage made a bold decision: leave the U.S. market and return home to Nigeria.
Signed to Mavin Records in 2012 under Don Jazzy.
Released hit singles like Kele Kele Love and Love Me (3x).
Dropped her debut album Once Upon a Time (2013).
This was the official coronation period—Tiwa entered a male-dominated Afrobeats industry and claimed her throne through sheer consistency.
Creating a Distinct Sound
Tiwa Savage’s music stands out because she blends:
Afrobeats – her Nigerian roots.
R&B and Soul – her Western influence.
Pop elements – giving her crossover appeal.
Songs like Eminado, All Over, and Ma Lo with Wizkid & Spellz are perfect examples of this fusion style.
Going Global: Signing with Universal Music Group
In 2019, Tiwa Savage signed with Universal Music Group (UMG), cementing her status as a global Afrobeats ambassador.
This deal gave her international exposure and allowed her to collaborate with stars like Brandy, Beyoncé, and Coldplay.
Her feature on The Lion King: The Gift album brought her voice to millions worldwide, solidifying her global crown.
Breaking Barriers for African Women in Music
Tiwa’s reign as Queen of Afrobeats isn’t just about her music—it’s about representation.
She was the first woman to win MTV Europe’s Best African Act Award.
She consistently opens doors for female artists in a male-driven industry.
She uses her platform to speak on women empowerment and authentic African identity.
Recent Work: This One Is Personal
In August 2025, Tiwa Savage dropped her latest album This One Is Personal, a 15-track masterpiece distributed via Empire Distribution.
This project shows that Tiwa isn’t slowing down—she’s evolving. Her crown is not just about past achievements, but also about staying relevant and impactful.
Why Tiwa Savage Is the Queen of Afrobeats
At Taculia Records, we sum it up in three words: Talent, Tenacity, Timelessness.
Talent: She has the voice, the style, and the stage presence.
Tenacity: She survived industry challenges and kept pushing.
Timelessness: Over a decade later, she’s still setting the pace in Afrobeats.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tiwa Savage’s Queen of Afrobeats Title
Q1: Why is Tiwa Savage called the Queen of Afrobeats?
Because she consistently blends African and Western sounds, dominates charts, and represents women in a male-dominated industry.
Q2: Who gave Tiwa Savage the title Queen of Afrobeats?
The title is fan-driven and media-backed, earned through her impact and influence, not self-proclaimed.
Q3: Is Tiwa Savage still relevant in 2025?
Yes. Her latest album This One Is Personal proves she is evolving and still leading the Afrobeats wave.
Q4: How long has Tiwa Savage been in the music industry?
She started professionally as a backup vocalist in the 1990s and launched her solo career in Nigeria around 2010.
Q5: What makes Tiwa Savage different from other Afrobeats artists?
Her global appeal, education, industry experience, and ability to balance R&B, pop, and Afrobeats uniquely.
Final Thoughts from Taculia Records
Tiwa Savage is not just wearing the crown—she earned it. From Isale Eko to London, from Mavin to UMG, and now with global independence via Empire Distribution, her journey is proof that African music has no limits.
At Taculia Records, we call her the Queen not just because of her music, but because she opened the way for others, proving that Afrobeats is here to stay.
