Nigerian music star Tiwa Savage has explained why she feels uncomfortable being described as the “Queen of Afrobeats.”
Speaking during an interview with Apple Music’s Ebro, the singer said that while she appreciates the love from fans, she does not accept the title because it comes with responsibilities she is not willing to carry.
“Yeah, they call me the Queen of Afrobeats, but there are a lot of us that are Queens. Personally, I don’t like that tag, it’s uncomfortable because I feel like if I start accepting it, I need to be humble and secondly, it doesn’t make sense to me. So, I don’t [accept it]. But I appreciate it. I didn’t come up with it. I think it’s just because I was one of the first female artists in Nigeria to break through. I do appreciate that. I’m not taking it for granted,” she said.
Savage stressed that the Afrobeats industry is filled with many talented women who equally deserve recognition, not just her.
Meanwhile, the Eminado crooner also called for Tems to be included in Afrobeats’ “Big 3” conversation — traditionally reserved for Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy.
According to her, Tems’ global achievements, including her Grammy win, Billboard Hot 100 entry, and collaborations with international stars, prove that the singer belongs among the top names shaping Afrobeats worldwide.
“The growth of Afrobeats cannot be fully told without acknowledging Tems’ role in its global reach,” Savage added.
