There is nothing Tiwa Savage cannot do; slay, make music, thrive. These 20 essential songs by Tiwa Savage is just a showcase of how diverse she is as a superstar, which is your all-time favourite?
Before Tems, Ayra Starr, or any of the leading female stars in the music industry right now, there was—and still is—Tiwa Savage. Think of her as the Beyoncé of the Nigerian music scene. She exudes a larger-than-life aura, thriving in a male-dominated industry while also embodying the ultimate Barbie lifestyle.
Tiwa Savage’s career spans over two decades of delivering excellent music, evolving artistry, and an unmatched ability to create magic. Whether she’s getting you grooving, feeling sexy, or falling in love, her vocal prowess and Afrobeats mastery remain undefeated.
It would be downright disrespectful to acknowledge Nigerian female artists without putting Tiwa Savage at the top of the list. A legend in the game, her importance is still undeniable. And every time she drops a song, the streams go through the roof—because when Tiwa sings, we listen.
Though this list doesn’t cover the entirety of her discography, here are 20 Essential Songs by Tiwa Savage that you either already know or absolutely should.
1. All Over
A quintessential pop track that cements Tiwa Savage as the ultimate lover girl. Even years later, this song remains the go-to anthem for romantic vibes.
2. Koroba
Part of her album “Celia,” “Koroba” is noted for its blend of traditional and contemporary sounds, a testament to Tiwa’s versatility and her ability to innovate within Afrobeats.
3. Tales by Moonlight (with Amaarae)
From the “Water And Garri” EP, this track is a sensual, riveting piece, standing out for its purposeful collaboration and narrative depth, appealing to fans of emotional storytelling.
4. Toma Toma (with Ruger)
A collaboration with Ruger, released as a single, “Toma Toma” is a high-energy track that displays Tiwa’s adaptability, blending her style with emerging talents for a fresh sound.
5. Loaded (with Asake)
Another release, “Loaded” featuring Asake talks about accomplishments and breezy affluence, meeting halfway with Asake’s style for a magnetic, resonant collaboration.
6. Stamina (with Ayra Starr & Young Jonn)
While primarily Young Jonn’s song, Tiwa’s feature on “Stamina” alongside Ayra Starr is flawless, holding distinct styles, creating a typical pop hit for romantic get-togethers, highlighting her collaborative impact.
7. Park Well (with Davido)
From “Celia,” this track with Davido is a masterful display of vocal chemistry, creating an infectious, memorable song that has become a fan favourite.
8. 49-99
Released as a single, “49-99” blurs Afrobeats and Afrobeat, using strong contemporary lingo and vivid production, reflecting Tiwa’s growth as a lyricist and her connection with modern audiences.
9. My Darlin
From her album “R.E.D.,” “My Darlin” is a tender love ballad, showcasing Tiwa’s soulful vocals and her ability to convey deep emotion, a staple for romantic playlists.
10. Olorun Mi
From her debut “Once Upon a Time,” “Olorun Mi” is a spiritual, soulful track, where she acknowledges the death of certain icons in the entertainment industry. It remains a fan favourite for its heartfelt lyrics and melody, marking early career highlights.
11. Wanted
Also from “Once Upon a Time,” “Wanted” pushed sensual expression, facing Nigerian conservatism with its ban from airwaves, a bold statement in her discography.
12. Eminado (with Don Jazzy)
A groovy, interactive track from “Once Upon a Time,” “Eminado” featuring Don Jazzy became a popular culture reference, achieving classic status in Afrobeats.
13. Kele Kele
From “Once Upon a Time,” “Kele Kele” is a playful yet serious song with bubbly production, an instant favorite that exemplifies her early catchy style of making love songs.
14. Without My Heart (with Don Jazzy)
Another from “Once Upon a Time,” this memorable blend with Don Jazzy includes his best verse, an avowed classic that is a landmark for classic love songs from the early 2010s.
15. Igi Orombo (with Sean Tizzle)
This collaboration blends Tiwa’s smooth vocals with Sean Tizzle’s style, a must-listen for fans of early Afrobeats collaborations.
16. Kilimanjaro (with Black Sherif & Young Jonn)
Released in, “Kilimanjaro” is a fusion of different musical influences, innovative and nostalgic, showcasing Tiwa’s continued relevance with new talents.
17. Ma Lo (with Wizkid & Spellz)
From “Sugarcane” EP, “Ma Lo” is a chill record, proving attention translates to worthy music, high in both Tiwa and Wizkid’s catalogs, a vibey track for parties.
18. Somebody’s Son (with Brandy)
From “Water And Garri,” this potent crossover with Brandy brings classic soulfulness, affirmative and elevated, showcasing international collaboration.
19. African Waist
From “R.E.D.,” this song celebrates African culture and beauty, with infectious rhythm and empowering lyrics, a standout for its cultural resonance.
20. Pick Up
No matter the beat, Tiwa Savage always delivers. “Pick Up” highlights her knack for crafting infectious rhythms while maintaining effortless grace.
