Tiwa Savage’s Celia: A Groundbreaking Afrobeat Experience
Tiwa Savage’s latest album, Celia, is nothing short of spectacular. The Nigerian Afrobeats queen has once again solidified her position as one of the most influential artists in the global music scene. Normally, I start a review by assessing the strengths and weaknesses of an album, but Celia defies this standard approach, compelling me to begin with high praise. This album is a masterpiece that showcases Tiwa’s commitment to authenticity and her ability to convey deep emotions through her music.
Unity in Sound: Staying True to Afrobeats
One of the most commendable aspects of Celia is its unity in sound. Tiwa Savage remains true to her Nigerian roots, delivering an album steeped in Afropop and Afrobeats. Unlike many artists who might dabble in other genres like soul, EDM, pop, or R&B, Tiwa keeps her sound pure, focusing on the ponpon beats, the alt sound, and the iconic Fela Kuti-inspired Afrobeats. This dedication to her cultural sound not only solidifies her identity as an artist but also offers listeners an authentic Nigerian musical experience.
Thematic Depth: Exploring Love and Social Issues
Celia isn’t just about catchy beats and danceable tunes; it carries a profound message. The album delves into the complexities of love, particularly from a woman’s perspective, addressing how women act and react to love. However, it doesn’t stop there. Tiwa also touches on socio-cultural issues in Nigeria, using her platform to shed light on important topics.
In “Pakalamisi,” featuring Hamzaa, Tiwa sings about the overwhelming feeling of being in love, describing how it can make one feel both euphoric and out of control. The song is a beautiful blend of Afropop and soulful lyrics, making it a standout track on the album.
Powerful Collaborations: A Fusion of Energies
Tiwa Savage’s collaborations on Celia are nothing short of brilliant. Her work with prominent producers like Cracker Mallo, London (LDN), and Speroach, as well as features with artists like Sam Smith, Stefflon Don, Davido, Naira Marley, Hamzaa, and Dice Ailes, elevates the album to new heights. Each feature blends seamlessly with Tiwa’s energy, creating a cohesive and dynamic sound that is rare in today’s music industry.
For instance, in “Attention,” Tiwa addresses the issue of neglect in a relationship, where she sings about a lover who no longer gives her the attention she deserves. The song’s lyrics are relatable and poignant, making it an anthem for anyone who has felt unappreciated in a relationship.
Hit Tracks: Songs that Resonate
Celia is packed with potential hits, with no less than six tracks that could dominate the charts. From the sultry “Park Well” featuring Davido, where Tiwa sings about wanting her lover to settle down with her, to the socially charged “Ole” featuring Naira Marley, where she addresses the issue of debtors in a playful yet powerful manner, each song has its unique appeal.
The album also includes the track “Koroba,” which critiques societal norms in Nigeria, and “Dangerous Love,” a smooth, seductive tune that has already garnered significant attention. These songs, along with others like “Hallelujah” and “Temptation,” showcase Tiwa’s versatility and her ability to create music that resonates with a wide audience.
Conclusion: Celia is a Masterpiece
In conclusion, Tiwa Savage’s Celia is more than just an album; it’s a statement. It’s a celebration of African culture, love, and resilience. Tiwa has managed to create a body of work that not only entertains but also educates and inspires. This album is her best project to date, and with the right promotion and airplay, it has the potential to achieve global recognition.
Celia is an album that will leave a lasting impact on the music industry, and it deserves to be celebrated as one of the best Afrobeats albums of our time.
Tiwa Savage’s Celia: A Groundbreaking Afrobeat Experience
