Tiwa Savage: Don Jazzy pushed me to embrace Nigerian languages in music

Nigerian music star Tiwa Savage has opened up about the significant role Don Jazzy played in shaping her career and musical direction.

Speaking during a recent interview on Arise TV, the singer revealed that while she initially started out as an R&B artist, Don Jazzy encouraged her to explore Afrobeats and incorporate indigenous Nigerian languages into her music.

According to her, the shift was not easy at first, but it ultimately helped her grow her audience and redefine her sound.

She explained that working closely with Don Jazzy broadened her perspective on creativity and pushed her beyond her comfort zone. He encouraged her to experiment with Yoruba, Igbo, and Pidgin in her songs, including “Eminado” — a track she initially doubted but which went on to become one of her biggest hits across Africa.

Savage noted that the experience taught her the importance of trusting the creative process.

The singer was previously signed to Mavin Records, the label founded by Don Jazzy, where she was one of its early flagship artists after joining in 2012. She remained with the label until her departure in 2019.

Beyond music, Savage has also been investing in the next generation of creatives. Through her foundation, she recently awarded fully funded three-year scholarships to 18 emerging Nigerian artists and music professionals.

The beneficiaries are set to study at Berklee College of Music in Boston, United States, following the completion of a training programme.