Nigerian Afrobeats star Tiwa Savage has opened up about the harsh criticism she faces for her fashion choices, which many attribute to her age. During a candid conversation on The Receipts podcast, the 44-year-old singer shared her frustration about being age-shamed, particularly by Nigerians, for wearing revealing outfits despite her confidence and fitness.
“They Age-Shame Me Every Single Day”
Savage, a single mother and global music sensation, compared her experience with cultural differences between Africa and the U.S. when it comes to celebrating older women’s beauty.
“They age-shame me every single day,” she revealed. “They say, a woman of your age, how can you be wearing a bikini? I can because I have a body.”
She drew parallels with American icon Beyoncé, also in her 40s, who is often celebrated for her bold and stylish looks.
“Beyoncé is in her 40s and wears bikinis, but Americans don’t age-shame her. They would be like, for her age, black don’t crack. It’s more celebrated when you look good in your older age,” she said, emphasizing the stark difference in societal attitudes.
Critics and Her Son
The “Somebody’s Son” singer also addressed concerns from critics who claim her fashion choices might negatively impact her son. However, she firmly dismissed these remarks, asserting her pride in her self-expression and the values she embodies for her child.
“They [Africans] always throw these things like, when her son grows up, he’s going to see this. My son is going to be like, my mum is a powerful and beautiful woman,” Savage stated confidently.
The Double Standard
Savage’s experience sheds light on the double standard many women face regarding age and beauty. In African societies, older women are often expected to conform to conservative norms, while in Western cultures, age-defying beauty is celebrated.
Despite the backlash, Tiwa Savage remains a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, using her platform to challenge societal norms and empower women to embrace their individuality unapologetically.
Her message is clear: Age is just a number, and confidence in one’s own skin is timeless.
