Tiwa Savage Pushes Back on ‘Queen of Afrobeats’ Title: Why the Super star says ‘It’s Bigger Than One Person’

By 9jafinds Staff ✍🏽 
Published September 11, 2025

When it comes to Afrobeats, Tiwa Savage is undeniably one of the genre’s biggest global ambassadors. From sold-out tours to Billboard-charting singles and groundbreaking collaborations with the likes of Beyoncé, Brandy, and Wizkid, Savage has carved out a legacy that transcends borders.

Yet despite her accolades, the singer recently admitted that she feels “uncomfortable” with being called the Queen of Afrobeats.

Speaking during a recent interview, Tiwa explained that while the honorific comes from a place of respect, she worries that it also places an unnecessary burden on her artistry and on the genre itself.

“Afrobeats is bigger than one person,” she said. “I don’t ever want people to think it begins and ends with me. I am a part of something much greater — a culture, a movement, and a sound that belongs to all of us.”

Why Tiwa’s Statement Matters

Her words strike at the heart of the Afrobeats movement. What began in Lagos nightclubs and Nigerian studios has exploded into a global phenomenon, inspiring new genres, crossovers, and collaborations with some of the biggest names in music.

While fans and media outlets often look for a face to crown as the ultimate representative of a genre, Tiwa’s perspective reminds us that Afrobeats thrives on its collective energy — from legends like Fela Kuti and 2Baba to today’s international stars like Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, Tems, and Rema.

By rejecting the crown, Tiwa highlights an important truth: Afrobeats isn’t monarchy, it’s movement.

The Queen Who Doesn’t Want a Throne

Tiwa’s humility is refreshing in an industry where ego often reigns. But make no mistake — her artistry is second to none. With a career spanning over a decade, Savage has:

• Released four acclaimed studio albums

• Headlined shows in over 30 countries

• Amassed millions of streams across platforms

• Won awards including MTV Europe Music Awards and Headies

• Partnered with major brands and fashion houses

She’s a pioneer, and her refusal to monopolize the genre’s spotlight shows why fans across the globe continue to resonate with her.

Afrobeats and the World: A Global Stage

The timing of Tiwa’s comments is also significant. Afrobeats has never been more global than it is right now:

• Burna Boy sold out stadiums across Europe and the U.S.

• Rema’s Calm Down became one of the most streamed songs worldwide

• Tems is reshaping R&B while staying rooted in Afrobeats

• Davido’s Timeless set global streaming records

Tiwa’s stance suggests that the genre’s future lies not in singular ownership but in shared excellence.

9jafinds: Your Hub for Nigerian Culture and Beyond

At 9jafinds, we believe stories like Tiwa’s are vital. They show how Nigerian voices continue to shape music, fashion, business, and global conversations. Whether it’s breaking news on Afrobeats stars, coverage of Nigerian entrepreneurs making waves internationally, or curated recommendations on products that connect the diaspora — we’ve made it our mission to be the No.1 hub for Nigerian culture, commerce, and community.

💡 Explore more of Afrobeats culture and shop curated essentials inspired by Nigerian excellence at 9jafinds.com/shop.

Final Word

Tiwa Savage may shy away from the “Queen” title, but there’s no denying her influence. She remains a trailblazer, a global superstar, and one of the brightest examples of Nigerian excellence in the world.

Sometimes, the most powerful leaders are the ones who refuse the crown.

 What do you think? Should Tiwa embrace the “Queen of Afrobeats” title, or is she right to let the crown sit on the people?