Hold onto your hats, music enthusiasts, because the undisputed Queen of Afrobeats, Tiwa Savage, is about to take us on a captivating journey back to where it all began! After years of fearlessly charting new territories within the vibrant landscape of Afrobeats and even venturing into the realm of global pop, the phenomenal Tiwa Savage has announced a heartfelt return to her foundational love: the rich and emotionally resonant world of Rhythm and Blues.
This exciting news comes with the revelation of her upcoming fourth studio album, aptly titled "This One Is Personal." The very name suggests an intimate and deeply felt project, hinting at a sonic exploration that will undoubtedly resonate with longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Adding fuel to this anticipation is her brand new single, "You4Me." This track offers a tantalizing first taste of what this new era holds, and if its smooth, in-your-feels vibe is any indication, we are in for a truly special experience. Sampling the timeless classic "So Into You" by Tamia, "You4Me" masterfully blends nostalgic melodies with a contemporary Afropop sensibility, all while showcasing Tiwa's signature sultry and captivating vocals. There's a distinct coolness, a nod to the beloved sounds of the 90s, woven seamlessly into the fabric of this promising track.
For those who have followed Mama Jam Jam's incredible trajectory from the very beginning, this announcement carries a particular significance. Let's not forget the groundbreaking debut album that introduced Tiwa Savage to the world: "Once Upon a Time." Released in 2013 under Mavin Records and 323 Entertainment, this album gifted us a treasure trove of timeless hits, including the infectious "Kele Kele Love" and the deeply romantic "Eminado." "Once Upon a Time" wasn't just an album; it was a declaration of dreams realized, a testament to her journey from a young girl in Isale Eko with aspirations of stardom to the global icon she has become.
Building upon this foundation, Tiwa continued to explore diverse sonic palettes. In 2015, she released her sophomore album, "R.E.D. (Romance, Expression and Dance)," further solidifying her position as a powerhouse in African music with tracks like "My Darlin'." However, her artistic journey wasn't solely defined by full-length albums. The "Sugarcane" EP, released in 2017, offered a delectable taste of her versatility. Featuring collaborations with Wizkid and other notable artists and producers, "Sugarcane" explored themes of love in both English and Yoruba, spawning hits like "All Over" and "Ma Lo" and earning a nomination for Best Album of the Year at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards. This EP demonstrated her ability to deliver concise yet impactful projects, further showcasing her range beyond the Afrobeats sound she was increasingly shaping.
Then came the expansive and globally-reaching sounds of her third studio album, "Celia," released in 2020. This project saw Tiwa collaborate with international stars and delve into diverse sonic territories, further cementing her status as a global musical force. Following "Celia," Tiwa once again offered a more concentrated exploration of her artistry with the "Water & Garri" EP in 2021. This project showcased a more mellow and introspective side, featuring impressive collaborations with international artists like Nas and Brandy, alongside African talents such as Amaarae. "Water & Garri" served as a bridge, demonstrating her continued evolution and willingness to experiment with different textures and emotional depths in her music.
Now, with the arrival of "You4Me," we are offered a compelling glimpse into a more pronounced return to her "first love"—that raw, emotional, and vocal-centric space of R&B where she first found her voice. This new project, "This One Is Personal," promises a deeper dive into her personal narratives, delivered through honest and relatable lyrics and richly layered melodies. It's a beautiful full-circle moment for a global superstar who has never been afraid to evolve while staying true to her artistic core.
With her influence now stretching across continents and her impact on the global music scene undeniable, Tiwa Savage's return to her R&B roots promises to be both a deeply nostalgic embrace for her devoted fanbase and a fresh and exciting sonic adventure for new listeners. We are absolutely thrilled about this artistic evolution and eagerly await the full unveiling of "This One Is Personal." The Queen is back in her soulful element, and we are ready to listen!
Posted by Abdulazeez A Shomade | Published on 2025-04-30 13:35:31