Tiwa Savage stresses the power of fan connections
Tiwa Savage urges artists to build deeper fan connections, stressing their role in shaping an artist’s brand beyond music, on the Shopping the Sneakers podcast.
In her remarks, the globally celebrated singer highlighted how fellow Nigerian stars—Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy—have mastered this approach, contributing significantly to their sustained relevance and success.
Artists must be more than music
Savage argued that an artist’s journey isn’t solely about churning out hit songs. “It’s not just about the music; it’s your fanbase and your brand. You’ve got to think of your fashion. You’ve got to be relatable,” she explained.
She observed that many artists make the mistake of focusing exclusively on their craft while neglecting their audience. According to Savage, this disconnect can hinder long-term success.
“Artists are just putting out music, but they’re not really connecting with their fans,” she noted. “I think it’s really important to connect with the fans.”
Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy set the example
Using her colleagues Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy as examples, Savage shed light on the importance of fan relationships. She pointed out how these superstars have created lasting bonds with their audiences, which keeps them in the spotlight, even during quiet periods when no new music is released.
“If you look at Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy, they have established relationships with their fanbases. They love their lifestyles. Whether they are dropping a song or not, they are in the conversation,” she said.
This connection, Savage explained, is a significant factor in their ability to trend consistently on social media and in public discourse. Their appeal transcends their music, influencing fashion, pop culture, and everyday conversations.
The role of branding in longevity
Savage didn’t stop at fan relationships; she also delved into the broader aspects of branding. She encouraged artists to view themselves as more than performers, urging them to take charge of their image and relatability.
“Building a fanbase is not just about having people listen to your songs. It’s about how they see you as a person. They should want to know your story, your lifestyle, and what makes you unique,” she added.
A strong team equals a strong artist
While addressing the demands of a competitive industry, Savage underscored the value of teamwork. She reminded listeners that no artist thrives alone.
“You are only as good as the strength of your team,” she said. This statement reinforced the idea that an artist’s success is a collective effort involving managers, stylists, publicists, and others who contribute to building the brand.
Why artists should care
Savage’s insights resonate in a rapidly evolving music industry where fans crave more than just music. They want to feel connected to their favorite stars, whether through social media, live performances, or other creative avenues.
This approach, she believes, not only solidifies an artist’s place in the industry but also opens doors to diverse opportunities beyond music, such as fashion collaborations, endorsements, and global recognition.
Call to action
As Tiwa Savage continues to inspire through her music and words, her message serves as a wake-up call for artists to invest in their relationships with fans. Her advice highlights a simple truth: music is powerful, but connections are unforgettable.
By following the examples of Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy, emerging and established artists alike can create lasting legacies. It’s a reminder that behind every hit song lies a loyal fanbase eager to embrace not just the music but the person behind it.
Tiwa Savage’s words underscore the essence of building a brand rooted in authenticity and relatability. Her message is clear: the key to longevity lies in the hearts of the fans.
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