(DDM) – Nigerian music superstar, Tiwa Savage, has revealed how a past relationship with a fellow celebrity left her emotionally drained and disrespected.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the Afrobeats queen made the disclosure during her appearance on Joe Budden’s podcast, where she spoke about her personal struggles and industry controversies.
According to Savage, her former partner insisted on keeping their relationship secret, a decision she described as unfair and psychologically exhausting.
She recounted how the partner told her he did not want the romance to go public, claiming it was to avoid suspicion from outsiders.
Savage said the secrecy gave him the freedom to openly interact with other women at events, often in ways that appeared inappropriate.
“He would be laughing, touching, and socializing with other women, and still look at me like I shouldn’t worry,” the singer explained.
The award-winning star added that the arrangement silenced her in public spaces, making it impossible to speak up even when she felt humiliated.
She admitted the constant pretense left her feeling emotionally drained, as she had to endure disrespect in the name of protecting the relationship.
The revelation sparked reactions online, with many fans sympathizing with her and praising her courage for speaking out.
Tiwa Savage, often referred to as the “Queen of Afrobeats,” also used the platform to clarify her stance on the widely debated title.
She insisted she does not consider herself the only queen of the genre, stressing that other female artists deserve recognition as well.
Savage argued that reducing women’s achievements to one crown undermines the efforts of other talented singers dominating the global Afrobeats scene.
She said, “If I call myself the queen, then what about the other girls? They are also queens in their own right.”
Her remarks were seen as a direct acknowledgment of the contributions of stars like Yemi Alade, Tems, Ayra Starr, and others shaping modern Afrobeats.
Reflecting on her journey, Savage recalled being one of the first African female artists signed to Universal Music Group, a deal that expanded her global reach.
She noted, however, that the milestone came with significant struggles and countless rejections before eventual acceptance by the industry.
Born Tiwatope Savage, the singer has built a career spanning over two decades, blending Afrobeats, R&B, and pop to become one of Africa’s most influential musicians.
Her revelations highlight the intersection of personal sacrifice and professional success in the entertainment industry, where public image often clashes with private realities.
Savage concluded by urging women in music to celebrate each other’s successes rather than compete for singular titles.
The post Tiwa Savage opens up on secret affair, emotional toll, and Afrobeats crown debate
DDM News
first appeared on Diaspora Digital Media DDM.
