Tems: From Lagos to Global Stardom – A Grammy-Winning Journey
In just a few years, Temilade Openiyi, better known as Tems, has evolved from a rising star in Nigeria’s alternative music scene to a global icon, winning multiple Grammy Awards and reshaping the perception of African music on the world stage. Her rise, driven by raw talent, authenticity, and fearless creativity, has positioned her as one of the most influential voices of her generation.
Early Days & The Breakthrough Moment
Born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria, Tems was introduced to music at an early age, drawing inspiration from a fusion of soul, R&B, Afrobeats, and gospel. Unlike many artists who start with formal training, she was largely self-taught, honing her skills in singing, songwriting, and production.
Her defining breakthrough came in 2019 with the release of “Try Me”, a bold and defiant anthem that resonated deeply with audiences. The song’s haunting vocals, introspective lyrics, and alternative sound set her apart in a music industry largely dominated by mainstream Afrobeats. Overnight, she became a sensation, garnering a loyal fanbase that connected with her raw, unfiltered expression.
The Global Spotlight – “Essence” & International Recognition
The world took notice of Tems when she collaborated with Wizkid on “Essence” in 2020. The song was more than just a hit—it became a global movement, breaking records and propelling Afrobeats to new heights. The track’s dreamy, sultry vibe, combined with her enchanting vocals, transcended borders, earning a Grammy nomination and even a remix featuring Justin Bieber.
“Essence” wasn’t just a success—it was a cultural reset, proving that African music wasn’t just an emerging trend but a global force. It became the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 and was widely hailed as the “song of the summer,” played in clubs, festivals, and radio stations worldwide.
This newfound global attention led to collaborations with international heavyweights like Drake, Future, and Beyoncé, further solidifying Tems’ position as a major player in the industry.
Grammy Wins & Breaking Records
Tems continued to make history in 2023 when she won her first Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance for her contribution to “Wait For U” alongside Future and Drake. This achievement was monumental—it made her the first Nigerian female artist in contemporary times to win a Grammy for her own contribution, not just as a feature but as a recognized creative force.
Determined to cement her place in music history, Tems released her highly anticipated debut album, “Born in the Wild,” in 2024. The album showcased her artistic evolution, blending elements of soul, Afrobeats, R&B, and alternative music, while exploring themes of love, self-discovery, and resilience. The project was both a commercial and critical success, earning her multiple Grammy nominations, including Best Global Music Album.
At the 2025 Grammy Awards, she won her second Grammy, this time for Best African Music Performance with “Love Me JeJe”, a song that skillfully sampled Dosumu’s classic composition. This victory further solidified her legacy as one of the most influential African artists of her era.
Beyond the Music – A Cultural and Fashion Icon
Tems isn’t just an artist; she’s a cultural force. Her music defies traditional genres, seamlessly fusing soul, R&B, Afrobeats, and alternative sounds, creating a genre-fluid identity that has inspired a new wave of African artists.
Beyond her music, she has also become a fashion icon, known for her bold, unconventional style that challenges beauty standards and embraces African identity. Whether gracing the covers of major magazines like Vogue, Rolling Stone, and Elle or making headlines with her elegant, unapologetic fashion statements, Tems continues to push boundaries.
She’s also a symbol of creative independence, proving that African artists can thrive on their own terms, without conforming to industry expectations. Her journey serves as an inspiration for up-and-coming artists, showing that authenticity and staying true to oneself can lead to global success.
What’s Next? A Future Without Limits
From an emerging voice in Lagos to a multiple Grammy-winning global star, Tems has shattered every ceiling placed before her. And yet, she’s only getting started. With each release, she continues to break barriers, redefine genres, and inspire millions worldwide.
With rumors of major collaborations on the horizon and an expanding global presence, the future for Tems is boundless. Whether she’s headlining international festivals, selling out stadiums, or making history at award shows, one thing is clear:
The world is listening—and Tems is here to stay.
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By Davis Chapman
