Award-winning Nigerian singer and songwriter, Tiwa Savage, has opened up about the emotional inspiration behind one of her tattoos, revealing that it was born out of deep heartbreak.
Speaking in a recent interview with media personality Katy Igwe, the Afrobeats star explained that she went through a particularly painful period in her life about two years ago, and the emotional toll of that relationship pushed her to permanently etch the experience on her skin.
Savage disclosed that she did not want to undergo the procedure in a public tattoo parlour where strangers might witness her vulnerability. Instead, she flew in her personal tattoo artist from Los Angeles to her residence in Lagos.
“I flew in my tattoo artist from LA to Nigeria. And I did it [the tattoo] in my room, so I was in an environment where I was comfortable,” she said. “When you are in a tattoo parlour sometimes, a lot of people are working, and then you are going through that pain. I wanted to make sure that I was in a comfortable place.”
The singer revealed that the session was intense, describing it as “bloody,” which left her tattoo artist visibly concerned. “My tattoo artist walked in and was like, ‘What are you doing? Is that going to come off?’ He started tattooing my body, there was blood everywhere. So he was more concerned for me like, ‘What are you trying to do?’”
According to Savage, the tattoo was not merely an act of body art but an outlet for the overwhelming emotions she was experiencing at the time. “I did that [the tattoo] from the pain I felt from a heartbreak. I just wanted to do something to scream,” she explained.
The singer, who has often been vocal about personal struggles in her music, admitted that the last two years were among the hardest of her life. Without naming the individual involved, she described the relationship as “crazy” and expressed relief at having moved on.
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“Last two years was a very hard time. The relationship I experienced was crazy. I’m so happy I’m out of that relationship,” Savage added.
Her revelation highlights how personal challenges have influenced her creative expression and lifestyle choices, offering fans a glimpse into the emotional layers behind her polished public image.
Since the interview surfaced, Savage’s candid confession has sparked conversations online. Many fans praised her vulnerability, applauding her for sharing the less glamorous side of fame and for acknowledging the human pain behind her superstar persona.
Others noted how tattoos often serve as symbolic markers of survival, self-expression, and healing after difficult experiences. For Savage, whose career has spanned more than a decade and earned her the title “Queen of Afrobeats,” the tattoo stands as a reminder of both her vulnerability and resilience.
Savage’s story resonates with many who turn to art, music, or even body modification as a means of processing emotional pain. Experts often describe tattoos as deeply personal expressions, sometimes representing closure, transformation, or even defiance in the face of adversity.
For Savage, the act of inviting her tattoo artist into her private space was not just about comfort but also about maintaining agency over how she chose to process her grief. By taking control of the setting and experience, she transformed a moment of heartbreak into one of empowerment.
Despite the painful circumstances that inspired her tattoo, Savage appears to have emerged stronger. Known for her bold stage presence and global collaborations, the singer continues to dominate the Afrobeats scene. Her ability to blend vulnerability with artistry has kept her at the forefront of African music, earning her respect both at home and internationally.
As she continues to evolve personally and professionally, fans can expect that her experiences, including heartbreak and healing, will keep shaping her artistry in ways that resonate with millions.
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