On September 12, 2025, Nigerian superstar Tiwa Savage stirred conversations worldwide after rejecting the popular label of “Queen of Afrobeats.” The singer, often hailed as one of the pioneers of Afrobeats’ global rise, explained during an Apple Music interview with Ebro that she finds the title uncomfortable and overly restrictive.
Why Tiwa Turned Down the Crown
Tiwa Savage revealed that while she understands the love behind the title, she does not believe music should come with such heavy labels. According to her, Afrobeats is a collective movement with many female and male voices, and crowning just one person diminishes the contributions of others.
She also admitted that the “queen” title brings unwanted pressure to constantly meet unrealistic expectations. For Tiwa, music is meant to be a journey of creativity, not a competition about who reigns supreme. This humility reminded fans why she continues to resonate beyond the music itself.
Fans React Online
The news quickly spread across social media, with fans and fellow artists weighing in. Supporters applauded her honesty, with one fan commenting: “Tiwa is showing true leadership, she doesn’t need a crown to prove her greatness.”
Others, however, felt differently. Some argued that she has already earned the crown through her longevity, global collaborations, and consistent dominance in the industry. One user on X wrote: “Queen or not, nobody has carried Afrobeats on her back like Tiwa. She deserves the title.”
The debate highlighted just how much Tiwa means to her fans, whether she accepts the crown or not.
Regardless of labels, Tiwa Savage’s influence on Afrobeats is undeniable. With groundbreaking collaborations alongside Beyoncé, Wizkid, Coldplay, and Brandy, as well as headline performances at major global festivals, she has cemented her legacy as one of Africa’s most powerful cultural exports.
For Tiwa, the music speaks louder than any title. Whether she chooses to be called the Queen of Afrobeats or simply Tiwa Savage, her artistry continues to shape the genre’s global identity.
