Nigerian music star Tiwa Savage has opened up about the struggles she faced while recording her album R.E.D during pregnancy.
In a recent interview on the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, the award-winning singer shared how being pregnant affected her voice and her ability to perform in the studio.
Recording while pregnant was a struggle
“I was pregnant when I recorded R.E.D,” she said. “I remember crying in the studio with my big belly. It was a struggle.”
According to Tiwa Savage, pregnancy took a toll on her vocal range. The physical changes made it difficult for her to sing at her usual pitch. As a result, she had to adjust the music to match her condition.
Vocal adjustments and key changes
Tiwa Savage explained that she was forced to change the key of some of the songs on the album. This helped her cope with the vocal limitations she was experiencing at the time.
“I had to change the key of some of the tracks because I couldn’t hit certain notes the way I used to,” she said. “It was frustrating, but I had to do what I could with the voice I had at the time.”
Tiwa Savage gets support from Don Jazzy, Mavin team
The singer also spoke warmly about the support she received from her Mavin Records team during her pregnancy. She revealed that she was the first artist on the label to become pregnant, and the experience was new for everyone.
“Anytime they noticed my energy dropping, Don Jazzy would tell them to get me what I was craving, usually eggs and bread,” she recalled with a laugh.
Despite the physical and emotional stress, she said the understanding environment at Mavin helped her push through and complete the project.
A landmark album despite the challenges
R.E.D. which stands for “Romance, Expression, Dance,” was released in December 2015. It went on to become one of Tiwa Savage’s most celebrated albums. The project featured hit tracks like “My Darling,” “African Waist,” and “If I Start to Talk.”
Even though she faced difficulties during the recording process, the album was praised for its strong production, lyrical depth, and Savage’s distinctive sound.
Career milestones before and after mavin
The mother of one joined Mavin Records in 2012 under the leadership of Don Jazzy. Her time with the label saw her rise to become one of the most influential female artists in Africa.
In 2019, after several years of success, she signed an international deal with Universal Music Group. This marked a major step in her global music career and introduced her to a wider international audience.
Motherhood gave her a new perspective
Reflecting on the experience, Tiwa Savage said that pregnancy didn’t just change her voice—it changed her mindset.
“Pregnancy didn’t just change my voice temporarily, it changed how I see the world,” she said. “It gave me a new kind of strength.”
Now a mother and a global music icon, Savage continues to grow her brand while inspiring other women in the industry.
A message of resilience to women in music
Tiwa Savage’s story sheds light on the quiet battles many female artists face, especially when balancing personal life with demanding careers. Her openness about her experience offers encouragement to other women who may be going through similar struggles.
Through strength, support, and determination, Tiwa Savage showed that even in difficult times, creativity and passion can still thrive.
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