Afrobeat Star Tiwa Savage Makes Acting Debut in ‘Water and Garri’
Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Tiwa Savage is stepping into the world of acting with her debut role in the Nigerian movie drama “Water and Garri.”
In the Prime Video production, Savage takes on the character of Aisha, delving into a narrative centered on love and betrayal.
“It’s a story about love and betrayal,” Savage explains. “She left her hood to pursue her dreams as a fashion designer, and obviously when she came back home, so many things have changed. And that’s where the drama starts.”
Beyond her on-screen presence, Savage also serves as the executive producer of the film, in addition to her roles as writer and producer of its soundtrack.
Originally conceived as a visual project accompanying music Savage had penned two years prior, the movie’s production led to a complete overhaul of the soundtrack.
“I didn’t like any of the music that I had done already because, like, I feel like the music lives in the moment in time and this is like two years later,” she explains. “So, I said scrap everything, I’m going to go away for like a week and I’m going to do a whole new soundtrack. And that’s what I did because now I was more into the movie, and I felt like I could make something stronger as a soundtrack.”
Savage embarked on a creative retreat in Malibu, where she spent around ten days crafting new music, ultimately returning with 11 songs.
While Savage admits to feeling like she and debut director Meji Alabi were “winging it” at the project’s inception, she expresses satisfaction with the final outcome.
“It turned out good – turned out really good,” she reflects. “And I think because it was a first for both of us, we were kind of really helping each other out and very supportive of each other.”
“Water and Garri” forms part of Prime Video’s initiative to spotlight authentic African series and films, aiming to broaden their reach to a global audience.
“It’s amazing to be picked up by such a platform. My first. It just makes me feel like I can I can do anything,” Savage enthuses.
The eagerly anticipated premiere of “Water and Garri” is set for May 10 on Prime Video.
