It’s been quite the year for Tiwa Savage, the Nigerian singer-songwriter who recently signed to Roc Nation.
Now, the singer is taking the world by storm with her eye on international recognition. Savage was also announced as one of the performers at this year’s 8th annual ESSENCE “Black Women in Music” event, where Erykah Badu is being honored.
But, before she takes the stage, here are seven things you need to know about the incredibly talented singer.
1. She’s All About Seeing More Female Acts In The Industry
The singer doesn’t compare herself to others, but champions the idea of seeing more female artists in the industry. She once told Nigeria’s Vanguard, “Back in America, we have the likes of Beyonce, Nicky Minaj, Mariah Carey and other female acts standing tall. So why would there be just one person shining here? After all, here in Nigeria, we have male acts like Davido, Wizkid, M.I, Tuface and other big names at the same time. It’s not fair to have just one female act in the industry. So, I’m glad that more female acts are springing up. Having more female acts in the industry will open more doors.”
2. She’s Worked With Incredible Artists
Savage has worked with and written for some amazing artists like Monica, Fantasia, Mary J. Blige, and Whitney Houston, singing background vocals on the late icon’s I Look To You.
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3. She attended The University of Kent and Berklee College of Music
Her parents were initially hesitant about her decision to pursue music, so to quell their fears she decided to study Business Administration at the University of Kent. Later, she attended Berklee College of Music after realizing that her itch to perform was too great to ignore.
4. Her First Performance In The U.S. Was During The 2014 BET Awards Weekend
She performed at BET’s “Music Around The Globe” showcase, marking her first performance in the states.
5. She Made It To The Final 24 On The UK’s X Factor
Savage appeared on the UK edition of X Factor, making it to the top 24 while attending Berklee.
6. Savage Has An Adorable Son
She has the most adorable son, Jamil.
7. She Wants To Leave A Global Legacy
Savage isn’t just aiming to be one of Nigeria’s biggest popstars, she wants to make her mark on the world. Adding that her son was her biggest motivation, she told Fashion Bomb TV, “Before I used to work hard, now there’s a reason. I want to leave a legacy. I don’t want to be remembered as one of the biggest female artists out of Africa, I just want to be remembered as one of the biggest artists period.”