Nigerian music star Tiwa Savage has revealed that the type of record label an artist is signed to can significantly affect their mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Speaking on the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast with Joey Akan, she reflected on her time at Mavin Records, saying she only fully understood the importance of emotional support within a label after she left.
The singer explained that while at Mavin, she often turned to label boss Don Jazzy and other label mates during difficult moments, especially when dealing with public pressure or online controversies.
According to her, the environment at Mavin felt like a family where she could openly express emotions and seek comfort when needed.
She contrasted that experience with her current international label arrangement, noting that such personal support is less available in larger corporate setups.
“I would 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,” she said.
Tiwa Savage added that artists need to carefully consider whether a record label genuinely cares about their wellbeing or simply views them as commercial assets.
She joined Mavin Records in 2012 and left in 2019 before signing with Universal Music Group, but she maintains that she still holds Mavin in high regard as family.