Tiwa Savage opens up on Afrobeats journey, motherhood, musical legacy

Tiwa Savage shares personal insights on motherhood, music risks, and longevity in Afrobeats in a revealing Afrobeats Intelligence interview with Joey Akan

Tiwa Savage Afrobeats journey continues to inspire, as the Nigerian music star gave one of her most candid interviews yet on the latest episode of Afrobeats Intelligence, hosted by Joey Akan and presented by OkayAfrica.

Also read: Tiwa Savage London Concert Halted by Heartwarming Reunion with Former English Teacher

Celebrated globally as a powerful voice in contemporary African music, Tiwa has consistently defied expectations over her decade-long career.

She’s known not only for her string of hit records but also for pioneering a unique sound that blends Afrobeats with R\&B, establishing a lane many once doubted would succeed.

In the intimate interview, Tiwa opened up about the emotional weight of balancing music and motherhood during the COVID-19 lockdown.

“I had a studio at home, and I was always there, 2 a.m. sometimes, just listening to music. I realised I was not spending time with my son, and it wasn’t good for me,” she shared. “I couldn’t separate work from home because work was in my home.”

That revelation fuelled her desire to regain control over her boundaries—an effort that also shapes how she thinks about her son’s future. Asked whether she would want him to pursue a music career, her answer was firm.

“Artists have some of the most difficult jobs one could think of. The rate of success is very slim… even if you get hits, it’s hard to sustain it,” she said. “Mentally, it’s a lot. You’re not making as much as people think you are, but you have to live like you are.”

Tiwa also recalled her early challenges with major labels who failed to understand her direction. “Some wanted me to be the African Rihanna, but that didn’t match my vision,” she revealed.

“Others didn’t think blending R\&B and Afrobeats would work. They said, ‘you’re a great singer, you look amazing,’ but I never got the call back.”

Her persistence proved them wrong. Today, Tiwa Savage is one of Africa’s most recognisable music exports. Yet, she remains grounded, admitting she doesn’t have all the answers.

Reflecting on her upcoming album, she said, “I’m taking a risk. It’s not like I know for sure this one is going to enter. But I always learn. I never let it defeat me.”

The conversation also touched on the evolution of her sound and her resilience in staying relevant despite the fast-paced changes in the industry. “I just always try and go with my guts,” she said with conviction.

Also read: Lojay reveals he doesn’t write music, says raw emotion drives his sound

Tiwa Savage’s reflections offered a rare glimpse into the pressures of artistry, the complexity of fame, and the strength it takes to stay authentic. Her story is a testimony not just to musical brilliance, but to personal growth, vulnerability, and purpose.