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I used to run to Don Jazzy’s room to cry during hard times – Tiwa Savage
Celebrated Afrobeats star Tiwa Savage has opened up about the emotional and mental health challenges artists can face within different record label environments, offering a rare glimpse into the less glamorous side of the music industry.
Speaking on a recent episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast hosted by Joey Akan, the singer reflected on her time with Mavin Records and how the experience shaped her understanding of support systems in the industry.
According to Tiwa Savage, she didn’t fully appreciate the level of emotional care and community she had at Mavin until after she moved on to an international label setup.
She described how, during her time at the label, she had a close-knit support system she could rely on whenever she faced public pressure or personal challenges.
“Who you signed to is very important and I didn’t appreciate it until after I left Mavin. Whenever there’s a controversy online I’d run to Don Jazzy’s room, sit on the floor or bed with other Mavin acts and we would talk about it. I would cry if I had to cry and we would get through it. But being with a [foreign] label, they don’t really care about your personal stuff. So, I can’t really go to the Empire office and cry. I miss that part it.”
Her comments highlight the contrast between the more family-like structure she experienced at Mavin Records and the more business-driven approach she encountered elsewhere.
Tiwa Savage’s reflection adds to ongoing conversations about artist welfare, mental health, and the kind of support systems that exist behind the scenes in the global music industry.
“Who you signed with is important but i didn’t appreciate it on till I left mavin record, It like family! Whenever I have issues online I run to Don jazzy Room and he will call everybody together. If I have to cry or whatever but lebel doesn’t really care about your personal… pic.twitter.com/ymnAMmyi5U
— clipstormnaija 👾 (@clipstormnaija) May 20, 2026