Tiwa Savage Biography – Explore Tiwa Savage’s 2025 biography, from Meltdown festival to You4Me release. Discover her net worth, quotes, early life, and family.
Tiwatope Omolara Savage, born February 5, 1980, in Isale Eko, Lagos, Nigeria, is an award-winning singer, songwriter, and actress who has earned the title “Queen of Afrobeats.” Known globally for chart-topping hits like Koroba, Somebody’s Son, and collaborations with global superstars such as Beyoncé, Brandy, Nas, and Mary J. Blige, Savage remains one of Africa’s most influential entertainment figures.
In 2025, she continues to expand her artistic range through new music releases and high-profile performances, including her appearance at London’s Meltdown Festival.
Tiwa Savage Biography
| Field | Summary |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | Estimated at $5M–$10M in 2025 through music, endorsements, and acting. |
| Age | 45 years old (born February 5, 1980). |
| Notable Quote | “I’m at a stage where I am starting to accept certain things” (2024). |
| Early Life | Born in Lagos; moved to London at age 11. |
| Education | B.Sc. in Business Administration (University of Kent); Berklee College of Music. |
| Career Highlights | Eurovision 2023, King Charles III’s coronation, Water & Garri (film). |
| Family | One son, Jamil Balogun; parents Cecilia and Ladi Savage. |
| Latest Projects | R&B single You4Me (2025), acting in Water & Garri (2024), voice work. |
Early Life: From Lagos to London
Tiwa Savage was born and raised in Isale Eko, a culturally rich neighborhood in Lagos. At the age of 11, she moved to London with her family, an experience that shaped her cross-cultural identity and bilingual fluency in English and Yoruba. Her musical talent blossomed early through school orchestras and church choirs, setting the foundation for a career that would later bridge continents and genres.
Education: Balancing Business and Music
Savage pursued her undergraduate degree in Business Administration at the University of Kent, briefly working at Lloyds Bank. However, her passion for music led her to the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she specialized in jazz and vocal performance, graduating at 27. This academic blend of business and music has underpinned her strategic approach to branding and artistry.
Music Career: From Backup to Breakthrough
Tiwa began her professional journey in the UK and US music scenes, singing backup for icons such as George Michael, Mary J. Blige, and Chaka Khan. She later signed a publishing deal with Sony/ATV, co-writing Collard Greens & Cornbread for Fantasia, a song that earned a Grammy nomination.
In 2009, Savage returned to Nigeria to join Mavin Records under Don Jazzy. Her debut album Once Upon a Time (2013) featured breakout hits like Kele Kele Love. She followed up with albums such as R.E.D (2015) and Celia (2020), which showcased collaborations with Brandy, Nas, Davido, and more. In 2025, she marked a shift toward R&B with the release of You4Me.
Acting and Global Performances
Tiwa expanded into film with her acting debut in Water & Garri (2024), where she played the lead role of Aisha in a Prime Video drama. For the role, she trained in London and contributed to the film’s soundtrack. She also voiced a lead character in the animated film Ozi: Voice of the Jungle, performing One Heart, co-written with Diane Warren.
Her historic performance at the coronation of King Charles III in 2023 and her Eurovision appearance that same year positioned her as a cultural ambassador for Afrobeats on the world stage. In June 2025, she’s scheduled to perform at Little Simz’s Meltdown Festival at London’s Southbank Centre, affirming her continued relevance in global music.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite her success, Savage’s journey has not been without adversity. In 2021, she faced a blackmail attempt over a leaked intimate video, choosing to speak out rather than submit. In 2023, she survived a kidnap attempt involving domestic staff. In 2024, she filed a police report against artist Davido over alleged threats. These events brought public scrutiny, but she has consistently responded with resilience and dignity.
Net Worth and Business Ventures
Tiwa Savage’s net worth in 2025 is estimated between $5 million and $10 million, supported by earnings from music, acting, brand endorsements (including deals with MTN and Pepsi), and licensing. Her involvement in Water & Garri, a film with a $17 million production budget, significantly expanded her earning potential. She has hinted at future ventures, including a skincare line.
Notable Quotes
- “I’m at a stage where I am starting to accept certain things” – 2024
- “I do like to hide” – 2025
- “It takes a village to raise a child” – 2024
Major Accomplishments
- Performed at the coronation of King Charles III (2023)
- Represented Africa at Eurovision (2023)
- Collaborated with Beyoncé on The Lion King: The Gift
- Starred in Water & Garri and voiced Ozi: Voice of the Jungle
- Won MTV Africa Music Award for Best Female (2018) and Headies Best Female (2018)
Family and Personal Life
Tiwa Savage has one son, Jamil Balogun, from her marriage to music executive Tunji “Teebillz” Balogun (married 2013–2016). Her parents, Cecilia and Ladi, have supported her career since childhood. She is currently single and keeps her romantic life private. While there are rumors about siblings named Wale or Shola, these remain unconfirmed.
2025 and Beyond: The Next Chapter
In 2025, Savage continues her artistic evolution with the R&B single You4Me and her upcoming performance at the Meltdown Festival. She has voiced support for fellow Nigerian artists at the Headies and teased new ventures, including beauty products. Public reaction to her musical shift has been mixed, but her ability to adapt remains one of her greatest strengths.
Conclusion: A Modern Icon
Tiwa Savage’s life story is one of boundary-breaking, resilience, and global influence. From Lagos to London, from Afrobeats to R&B, from singer to actress, she exemplifies what it means to reinvent while remaining authentic. At 45, her journey continues to inspire millions across continents and generations.
FAQs About Tiwa Savage
What is Tiwa Savage’s most famous quote?
“I’m at a stage where I am starting to accept certain things” (2024), reflecting her maturity and personal growth.
Where did Tiwa Savage grow up?
She was born in Isale Eko, Lagos, and raised between Nigeria and London from age 11.
What are Tiwa Savage’s major accomplishments?
Highlights include performing at King Charles III’s coronation, her acting debut in Water & Garri, and Grammy-nominated songwriting.
What is her net worth in 2025?
Estimated at $5 million to $10 million from music, endorsements, and acting.
What’s new for her in 2025?
Performing at the Meltdown Festival, promoting You4Me, and teasing a skincare venture.
