Afrobeats diva Tiwa Savage drops a soundtrack album for her debut feature film 'Water & Garri'

Afrobeats diva Tiwa Savage drops a soundtrack album for her debut feature film ‘Water & Garri.’

Tiwa Savage, the Afrobeats sensation, has unveiled a soundtrack album for her first feature film, ‘Water & Garri,’ featuring a star-studded lineup including Ayra Starr, Olamide, Asa, The Cavemen, Black Sherif, and more.

On May 10, 2024, Tiwa Savage, hailed as the crowned Queen of Afrobeats, graces fans with the soundtrack album for her cinematic venture, ‘Water & Garri.’ Produced by Everything Savage and Unbound Studio, the feature film debuts on Amazon Prime Video today, coinciding with the release of its captivating soundtrack distributed by EMPIRE.

Crafted by Savage herself, the immersive and captivating soundtrack album boasts ten original tracks, blending Afropop, R&B, and Hip Hop. Alongside Tiwa’s own contributions, the album showcases a stellar lineup of featured artists including Grammy-nominated sensations Olamide and Ayra Starr, esteemed Nigerian singer-songwriter ASA, Cameroonian multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Richard Bona, gospel artist Zacardi Cortez, as well as emerging talents like Black Sherif, Young Jonn, Mystro Sugar, and The Cavemen.

Variety magazine noted that the soundtrack of “The Water & Garri” heavily relies on live instrumentation and ambient sound effects, creating an immersive auditory experience while showcasing Tiwa’s signature overtone singing. The project encompasses a diverse range of musical styles, blending Afrobeat, Afropop, amapiano, R&B, gospel, and subtle elements of mainstream trap and pop.

In discussing her involvement, Tiwa Savage expressed her excitement about experimenting with her sound within the context of a soundtrack, breaking away from certain expectations. She emphasized her consistent incorporation of African culture into her music and fashion, citing its inherent beauty and significance.

Her role in “The Water & Garri” signifies a significant milestone in Tiwa’s artistic journey, marking her debut as both a lead actress and Executive Producer in a feature film. Through her portrayal of Aisha, an ambitious fashion designer returning to her homeland after a decade abroad, the film and its accompanying soundtrack intertwine, revealing profound cultural shifts and personal reflections.

Returning home, Aisha confronts a stark reality where violence looms large, and tensions simmer. As she reconnects with family, old friends, and a former flame, she grapples with the scars of her past and the weight of unresolved guilt.

Set against the captivating backdrop of Cape Coast, Ghana, “The Water & Garri,” directed by Meji Alabi, unfolds with gripping cinematography and compelling storytelling. The cast features Mike Afolarin (“Far From Home”), Andrew Bunting (“Dynamite”), and Jemima Osunde (“New Money”), adding depth to the drama.

In July 2023, Tiwa celebrated the 10th anniversary of her groundbreaking debut album, “Once Upon A Time.” This milestone not only marked the genesis of her illustrious career but also showcased her remarkable talent, propelling her to become one of Africa’s most influential music icons.

Subsequent releases including “R.E.D” (2015), “Sugarcane E.P.” (2017), “Celia” (2020), and “Water & Garri EP” (2021) collectively amassed over a billion streams across various platforms. Tiwa’s musical journey has seen her collaborate with renowned artists such as Chris Martin of Coldplay, Beyoncé on projects like “The Gift” and “Black Is King,” Nas, Brandy, Sam Smith, Omarion, Wizkid, and Davido.

Her achievements include being the first female to clinch the MTV European Music Award for Best African Act in 2018, headlining two successful North American and European tours, and performing at the Coronation Concert for British Monarch King Charles II in 2023, representing The Commonwealth. In 2025, Tiwa Savage is slated to headline a concert at London’s iconic Wembley Arena.