Afrobeats superstar Tiwa Savage delivered a raw and vulnerable performance at the #WeLoveYaFestival in Cotonou, Benin Republic, on December 27, 2025.
The singer broke down in tears while performing her global hit “Somebody’s Son,” a moment that quickly went viral and sparked deep conversations among fans.
The Performance in Cotonou
During the set, Savage’s voice reportedly cracked as she reached the song’s emotional peak. Witnesses noted that the lyrics—which detail a longing for true, unconditional love—seemed to transform from a chart-topping anthem into a personal plea.
The singer paused as the crowd in Cotonou cheered her on, witnessing a rare moment of public vulnerability from the “Queen of Afrobeats.”
Why She Got Emotional
While Savage did not issue a formal statement immediately after the set, several factors contributed to the intensity of the moment:
Personal Reflections on Love: Savage has recently been vocal about her personal life, admitting in 2025 interviews that she has yet to experience “true love” apart from the bond with her son, Jamil. She described past romantic experiences as “infatuation” or “trauma,” leading some fans to believe her tears reflected a confrontation with loneliness despite her massive success.
The “Spiritual” Nature of the Song: Savage has previously described “Somebody’s Son” as a “spiritual” track intended to make women either dance or cry. She has also stated that the “son” in the lyrics refers to Jesus Christ, adding a layer of religious fervour to the performance.
Professional Exhaustion: The Cotonou event followed a tense experience just a day earlier at the Taste the Culture Festival in Ghana, where Savage reportedly clashed with organisers over sound issues and scheduling. This buildup of professional stress likely contributed to her emotional state on stage.
