Nigerian music icon, Tiwa Savage, has opened up about her stance on signing new artists under her label. In a recent interview, the Afrobeat queen revealed why she is not looking to sign aspiring artistes at this point in her career, despite the growing demand for new talent in the industry.
Tiwa explained that while she has a deep passion for nurturing talent and supporting up-and-coming artists, her current focus is on her own personal and professional growth. She emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency, citing how she has had to work hard to get where she is today, and believes that aspiring artistes must also put in the work to rise in the competitive music industry.
I understand the desire to give back and mentor, but I also know that success in this industry comes with dedication, strategy, and sometimes, a bit of luck, Tiwa stated. I’m in a phase where I’m building my brand, and I want to ensure that I’m at my best, which sometimes means putting my energy into my own music and projects.
Savage also expressed that signing new artistes requires a huge investment of time, resources, and attention, something she feels is better suited to labels and management teams who are more established in artist development. It’s not just about providing them with studio time or a platform. It’s about long-term commitment, and I’m at a stage where I need to focus on my own growth and evolution, she added.
Despite this, Tiwa remains an advocate for promoting young talent and has continued to use her platform to amplify the voices of emerging artistes. She has collaborated with and supported various up-and-coming musicians, providing them with exposure and guidance without the formal signing.
Her decision not to sign aspiring artistes doesn’t stem from a lack of care, but from a strategic desire to focus on her own career and ensure she has the capacity to give back in other meaningful ways, such as through collaborations and mentorship outside of contractual commitments.
In the ever-evolving Nigerian music industry, Tiwa Savage’s perspective serves as a reminder of the demands and challenges that come with the journey to stardom, not only for artistes but also for those in a position to mentor and guide others.