In the ever-evolving landscape of Afrobeats and R&B, few artists have captivated the world as effortlessly as Temilade Openiyi, better known as TEMS. From her soulful vocals to her genre-blending sound, the Nigerian singer-songwriter has carved a unique space for herself, becoming one of Africa’s most celebrated musical exports.
Tems was born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria. Her first name, Temilade, translates to "the crown is mine" in Yoruba, reflecting her Yoruba heritage. When she was an infant, her family moved to the United Kingdom but returned to Nigeria when she was five, following her parents' separation. She lived in Ilupeju before later relocating to Lekki and then Ajah.
For her education, Tems attended Dowen College for secondary school and later pursued a degree in Economics at Monash South Africa.
During high school, she often faced bullying because of her distinctive voice. At age 11, she joined the school choir, where she began experimenting with falsetto. Her music teacher quickly recognized her talent, guiding her vocal development and teaching her how to play the piano. She frequently practiced singing with her brother, who accompanied her on guitar, further shaping her musical abilities.
The Rise of a Star
TEMS grew up immersed in music, drawing inspiration from artists like Lauryn Hill, Asa, and Alicia Keys. Her journey into the industry began in 2018 when she left her 9-to-5 job to fully pursue music. In 2019, she released Try Me, a breakout single that introduced her distinctive voice—deep, raw, and emotionally charged—to the world.
Her 2020 For Broken Ears EP solidified her as a rising star, but it was her feature on Wizkid’s Essence that catapulted her to global recognition. The song became a cultural phenomenon, earning a Grammy nomination and making history as the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100.
A Global Force in Music
TEMS’ success didn’t stop at Essence. In 2022, she made history again when her vocals were sampled on Wait For U by Future and Drake, which won a Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance. She also became the first Nigerian female artist to win a BET Award for Best International Act.
Her ability to seamlessly blend Afrobeats, neo-soul, and alternative R&B has earned her collaborations with international heavyweights like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Drake, solidifying her as a force beyond Africa.
Beyond the Music
More than just a singer, TEMS is a songwriter and producer who takes creative control of her work. She’s known for her introspective lyrics, exploring themes of love, freedom, and self-discovery. Her authenticity has built a devoted fan base who resonate deeply with her artistry.
TEMS also represents a shift in the industry, proving that Nigerian female artists can break into the global mainstream without compromising their unique sound. Her impact on African music and culture is undeniable, inspiring a new generation of artists to dream bigger.
What’s Next for TEMS?
With her debut album highly anticipated, TEMS continues to push boundaries. Whether she’s gracing the world’s biggest stages, winning awards, or setting records, one thing is certain—her journey is just beginning.
For fans of soul-stirring music and powerful storytelling, TEMS is more than just an artist; she’s a movement. And as she continues to rise, the world will be watching.
Comments
Post a Comment