Award-winning Nigerian singer, Tiwa Savage, has shared insights into her career transition from R&B to Afrobeats, describing the shift as challenging but ultimately rewarding.
Speaking in a recent interview with TVC, the ‘Kele Kele Love’ hitmaker reflected on her decision to return to Nigeria in 2012 after starting her music career abroad, where she worked as a backup singer for global stars like George Michael and Mary J. Blige.
Savage revealed that adapting to the Nigerian music scene was not easy at first, especially moving from her R&B roots to embrace the more street-oriented Afrobeats sound that dominates the industry.
“It was difficult for me to transition from R&B to street sounds,” she admitted. “But when I was at Mavin Records, Don Jazzy opened my mind to so many different things. He made me believe that talent was not limited, that I could do anything if I really focused on it.”
According to her, the renowned producer and Mavin Records boss played a pivotal role in reshaping her musical direction, helping her break out of her comfort zone.
“He took me out of that R&B bubble and introduced me to other sounds,” she added.
Despite the initial struggles, Savage expressed no regrets about her decision to return to Nigeria and reinvent her sound. Today, she stands as one of the leading voices in Afrobeats, a testament to her adaptability and growth.
Her journey highlights the power of mentorship, resilience, and the courage to evolve in an ever-changing music industry.