Tiwa Savage

Early Life

Tiwatope Omolara Savage, known professionally as Tiwa Savage, was born on February 5, 1980, in Isale Eko, Lagos State, Nigeria. At the age of 11, her family moved to London, where she began to cultivate her musical talents. During her secondary school years, she played the trombone in her school's orchestra. Tiwa later graduated with a degree in accounting from the University of Kent and worked at The Royal Bank of Scotland. Her musical journey began early, as she provided backup vocals for renowned artists like George Michael and lent her voice to tracks by Mary J. Blige and Chaka Khan.

Career

Savage's career took a significant turn when she enrolled at Berklee College of Music, graduating in 2007. She gained recognition in 2006 by participating in the UK edition of The X Factor, where she reached the final 24. Despite facing challenges in the limelight, she persevered and eventually made her mark in the Nigerian music scene. Tiwa Savage's discography includes notable albums such as "Once Upon a Time," "R.E.D," "Celia," and "This One Is Personal," along with popular singles like "Dorobucci," "Lova Lova," and "49-99." Her music blends afrobeats, R&B, and pop, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

Personal Life

Tiwa Savage was married to Tunji "Tee Billz" Balogun, with their traditional marriage taking place in November 2013 and a white wedding in April 2014. The couple welcomed their son in 2015, but their marriage faced turmoil, leading to public disputes and allegations of infidelity. In July 2021, Savage experienced the loss of her father, which deeply affected her.

Legacy

Savage's influence extends beyond her music; she has been recognized as one of the 100 inspirational women by the BBC in 2017 and has inspired many upcoming artists, including Ayra Starr. Her contributions to the music industry have earned her numerous awards, solidifying her status as a leading figure in African music.