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| Biography of Tiwa Savage and her achievements |
Early Life and Background
Tiwatope Omolara Savage, popularly known as Tiwa Savage, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress born on February 5, 1980, in Isale Eko, Lagos State, Nigeria. At the age of 11, she moved with her family to London, United Kingdom, where she grew up and developed her passion for music.
She studied Business Administration at the University of Kent before pursuing music professionally. Tiwa later attended the prestigious Berklee College of Music, Boston, USA, where she graduated with a degree in Professional Music.
Early Career and International Experience
Before breaking into the Nigerian music scene, Tiwa Savage worked as a backup vocalist for global icons like George Michael, Mary J. Blige, Kelly Clarkson, and Whitney Houston. She also competed in The X Factor UK (2006) and gained valuable international exposure that shaped her career.
Rise to Fame in Nigeria
In 2010, Tiwa Savage returned to Nigeria with the dream of contributing to the Afrobeats movement. She signed a management and publishing deal with Sony/ATV Music Publishing, and shortly after, launched her own record label 323 Entertainment before joining Mavin Records (then Mo’ Hits) under Don Jazzy.
Her debut single Kele Kele Love (2010) was a massive success, establishing her as one of Nigeria’s leading female artists. She followed up with hit singles like Eminado, Love Me (3x), and Without My Heart.
Debut Album
Once Upon a Time (2013) – featuring hits like Eminado, Love Me (3x), and Ife Wa Gbona.
Other Notable Albums & EPs
R.E.D (2015) – included hits like My Darling and African Waist.
Sugarcane EP (2017) – with the smash hit Ma Lo ft. Wizkid.
Celia (2020) – featuring Dangerous Love and Koroba.
Water & Garri (2021 EP) – a globally acclaimed project featuring Somebody’s Son ft. Brandy.
Popular Songs by Tiwa Savage
Kele Kele Love (2010)
Eminado ft. Don Jazzy (2013)
Ma Lo ft. Wizkid (2017)
All Over (2017)
49-99 (2019)
Koroba (2020)
Somebody’s Son ft. Brandy (2021)
Stamina ft. Ayra Starr & Young Jonn (2023)
International Recognition
Tiwa Savage signed a recording deal with Universal Music Group (UMG) in 2019, making her one of the few Nigerian female artists with a major global music contract. She has performed at international festivals, including Made in America, Afropunk, and Global Citizen Festival, further establishing her as the "Queen of Afrobeats."
Awards and Achievements
Tiwa Savage has earned numerous awards and nominations, including:
MTV Africa Music Award for Best Female (2014)
The Headies Award for Best Collabo & Best Vocal Performance
City People Entertainment Awards
BET Awards nomination for Best International Act
MTV Europe Music Awards (2018) – Best African Act (first female to win).
Personal Life
Tiwa Savage was once married to Tunji "Tee Billz" Balogun, with whom she has a son, Jamil Balogun. Despite personal challenges, she remains focused on her career and philanthropy, often supporting young women through mentorship and charity initiatives.
Legacy and Impact
Tiwa Savage is celebrated as the Queen of Afrobeats for her contribution to the global recognition of African music. Her unique blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and pop has inspired a new generation of female artists in Nigeria and beyond.
She continues to break boundaries, collaborate with international stars, and remain one of Africa’s most influential voices in music.


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