Tiwa Savage, the undisputed queen of Afrobeats, is stepping into the spotlight in a whole new way – as a leading actress. In a recent interview with GU, she opens up about her return to acting, her passion for Africa, and the advice she has for young girls chasing their dreams.
For Savage, acting wasn’t just a new venture; it was a homecoming. “Acting was actually my first love,” she confesses, recalling her high school days. However, a youthful crush on a musician steered her towards music. Now, decades later, the circle is complete as she embraces both her musical and dramatic talents.
Her latest film, shot in Ghana’s Cape Coast, holds special significance. “There’s so much history there,” she says, referencing the poignant “Point of No Return” – a stark reminder of the slave trade. Filming there resonated deeply with the movie’s storyline, a tale of a woman named Aisha returning home after a decade abroad.
Savage speaks with pride about the growing global recognition of Africa. “It was not cool to be African” just a few years ago, she recalls, sharing her own experiences with bullying. Now, witnessing Africa’s cultural explosion fills her with joy. She highlights the undeniable influence of African music on popular genres, tracing the roots from Negro spirituals to Afrobeats itself.
Finding balance between career and personal life is key for Savage. “When I’m at home, I’m not Tiwa Savage, I’m mom,” she says, emphasizing the grounding influence of her son and her team. Knowing her limits and prioritizing self-care allows her to fully embrace both roles.
For aspiring young stars, Savage offers invaluable advice. “Never give up,” she urges, stressing the importance of dreaming big and not letting limitations hold them back. She encourages taking risks, especially in one’s youth, before life’s responsibilities take hold.
Savage herself is no stranger to breaking barriers. She recalls facing resistance upon returning to Nigeria, with her music deemed “too risque.” However, her perseverance and unwavering connection with her fans ultimately led to her success.
This same tenacity fueled her journey into film. Facing initial rejections, she and her team remained undeterred, financing the movie themselves. The film’s subsequent acquisition by Prime Video stands as a testament to her unwavering belief in the project.
While embracing her acting career, Savage assures fans that music remains a central part of her life. The upcoming movie soundtrack will be followed by a highly anticipated new album. She describes it as a return to her R&B roots, infused with the infectious energy of Afrobeats. Recorded in Nashville with live instrumentation, the album, her first under her new label, Empire, is set to drop later this year.
Tiwa Savage, the musical powerhouse, is proving her versatility and determination. Her journey from Afrobeats queen to leading lady is a testament to her talent, resilience, and unwavering belief in herself and her dreams.
