The Sounds of “Water & Garri”: Tiwa Savage’s Journey from Music Icon to Film Producer

Tiwa Savage, the anointed queen of Afrobeats, unveils her latest artistic venture with the release of “Water & Garri,” a feature film accompanied by a soundtrack that she personally curated. Premiering on Amazon Prime Video, the film’s release is perfectly synchronized with the soundtrack, available through EMPIRE, highlighting Savage’s meticulous approach to her craft.

“Water & Garri” transcends the traditional boundaries of film and music, offering a lush, auditory experience comprised of ten original tracks. Tiwa Savage collaborates with a dynamic roster of artists across genres, including Grammy-nominated Olamide and Ayra Starr, respected Nigerian singer-songwriter ASA, Cameroonian multi-instrumentalist Richard Bona, gospel sensation Zacardi Cortez, and emerging talents such as Black Sherif, Young Jonn, MystroSugar, and The Cavemen.

The soundtrack is a rich tapestry of Afrobeat, Afropop, amapiano, R&B, gospel, and even elements of mainstream trap and pop. Variety magazine praises the soundtrack for its “heavy use of live instrumentation and ambient sound effects,” which enhance the immersive experience, while Savage’s signature overtone-singing adds a unique texture.

Tiwa Savage expressed her enthusiasm for the project, noting the creative freedom it afforded her. “People expect a certain sound from me, but in doing a soundtrack, I could experiment,” Savage says. She emphasizes her commitment to infusing African culture into her work, whether through fashion or music, celebrating the beauty of her heritage.

The film “Water & Garri” is a significant milestone in Savage’s career, marking her debut as both lead actress and Executive Producer. Set in the vibrant yet tumultuous environment of Cape Coast, Ghana, the film follows Aisha, an ambitious fashion designer who returns to her native Eastside after a decade in the United States. Confronted with escalated violence and unresolved tensions, Aisha navigates reconnecting with her past while confronting personal guilt.

Directed by Meji Alabi, the film features compelling performances by Mike Afolarin, Andrew Bunting, and Jemima Osunde, woven together with captivating cinematography that brings the story of “Water & Garri” to life.

Reflecting on her illustrious career, Tiwa Savage celebrated the 10th anniversary of her debut album “Once Upon A Time” in July 2023. Her journey since then has been marked by significant achievements including collaborations with global icons like Beyoncé, Chris Martin, and Nas, and a historic win at the MTV European Music Awards as the first female Best African Act. Her tours in North America and Europe were highly successful, and in 2023, she performed at the Coronation Concert for King Charles II, representing The Commonwealth. Looking ahead, Savage is set to headline a major concert at London’s Wembley Arena in 2025, continuing to elevate her status as a global music phenomenon.

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The celebration continues. Come see me at Park Supper Club

Thank you to all of you who wished me a happy birthday. The celebration continues.

Come have a drink with me this Friday at The Park Supper Club

I wanna see you in the place.

Yep.. Drop in THIS FRIDAY 9@TheParkSupperClub..

65 E.55th (Chicago)

Friday 1/12/2024

5pm-12am

ARRIVE EARLY!

Capricorn celebration for @precise_chi and more!

Hosted by The 300 Group (Intimate Venues, Wine Tastings, Mansion Events)….

The Thursday event is now on Fridays!!

*Outside patio + inside bar & restaurant

• Free parking available in lot across the street

• For bday parties etc TEXT 773.977.8947

Happy Birthday to me! – I’m at that age where….

Just had another birthday recently and I am so grateful. I thank God for this life, my family and my experiences and I pray I am blessed to see many more. 

As I get older I realize my tolerance changes for many things and there are a few things that are more important than others. 

Check out my list below.

I’m at that age where….

1. My relationship with God, my family, friends and my peace of mind are of the utmost importance.

2. Leaving my house to spend money and stand in line just to enter a packed room where I can’t move around is NOT my idea of fun

3. Creating memories means more to me than impressing anyone.

4. Yeah, you fine AF, but can we actually talk about something besides what’s trending on social media?

5. I don’t take anything personally. I know what people think about me is their business.

6. Everybody does not need to know my business.

7. The songs I grew up with randomly come on in the grocery store while I’m shopping.

Thank you so much for taking a moment out of your day to acknowledge mine. I am so grateful for you and I wish all the great things you wish for me to be extended to you.

God is Awesome!

– Eddy Lamarre

Why Haitian Independence should be important to Black people around the world

January 1, 1804

January 1, 1804

On this day we celebrate defeating Napoleon’s army, affirming our freedom and establishing the first free Black nation on in the western hemisphere.

L’Union Fait La Force

Soup Joumou is a reminder of Haitian resilience and independence

As the world rings in the new year with fireworks and celebrations, Haitians have a unique reason to rejoice on January 1st. It’s a day that marks their hard-fought independence from the oppressive grasp of French colonial rule. On January 1, 1804, Haiti proudly declared its sovereignty after a relentless struggle against Napoleon’s formidable army. This monumental achievement was spearheaded by enslaved Haitians, initially under the leadership of Toussaint Louverture and later by Jean-Jacques Dessalines, who managed to expel the French from the island, establishing Haiti as the very first free Black nation in the northern hemisphere. This remarkable feat makes Haiti the only country to liberate itself from the brutal shackles of slavery.

In commemoration of this historic event, Haitians across the globe come together to celebrate with a special dish known as “soup joumou.” Interestingly, during the dark days of slavery, this soup was a privilege reserved exclusively for plantation owners and slave masters. However, the resilient Haitian people reclaimed this dish as a symbol of their triumphant struggle against the abhorrent institution of chattel slavery. Since then, this tradition has endured, serving as a powerful reminder of their indomitable spirit and resilience.

Soup joumou is more than just a culinary delight; it is a profound representation of freedom, strength, and love. Each spoonful of this hearty soup embodies the taste of liberation, reminding Haitians of their ancestors’ courage and determination in the face of adversity. It symbolizes the hope that flourished even in the darkest of times and the enduring love for their homeland.

The significance of Haiti’s independence day goes beyond mere historical importance; it stands as a beacon of inspiration for oppressed peoples worldwide. It is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and to achieve freedom and dignity. Haitians take immense pride in their heritage and use this day to reflect on their rich history and the sacrifices made by their forebears.

In conclusion, while the rest of the world joyously welcomes the new year, Haitians celebrate a remarkable and resilient history. The declaration of independence on January 1, 1804, marked the birth of a nation and the triumph of a people over the horrors of slavery. Soup joumou, a simple dish, serves as a potent symbol of this extraordinary journey, embodying the values of freedom, strength, and love that define the Haitian spirit.