Temilade Openiyi, professionally known as Tems, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer who has risen to global stardom with her unique voice and groundbreaking music. Known for her soulful blend of Afrobeat, R&B, and neo-soul, Tems has become a beacon of authenticity and empowerment in the music industry. Her meteoric rise has been characterized by chart-topping hits, award-winning collaborations, and a sound that transcends borders.
Early Life and Background
Tems was born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria. She spent part of her childhood in the UK before moving back to Lagos with her family. Raised by her mother, Tems grew up in a culturally rich household that exposed her to music at an early age. Her love for music was nurtured by listening to artists like Aaliyah, Lauryn Hill, and Beyoncé, who influenced her unique sound.
Tems attended Dowen College in Lagos for her secondary education and later studied Economics at Monash South Africa, a private university. During her college years, she began exploring her musical talents, experimenting with songwriting and vocal techniques.
Journey into Music
Tems’ journey into music began in earnest in 2018, when she decided to pursue her passion full-time. Her debut single, “Mr Rebel,” released in 2018, introduced her to the Nigerian music scene. The song, characterized by its introspective lyrics and ethereal sound, garnered attention and set the stage for her rise.
Her 2019 follow-up single, “Try Me,” catapulted her into the limelight. The song’s powerful message of resilience and her distinctive voice resonated with audiences, solidifying her position as one of Nigeria’s most promising new artists.
Top Hit Songs
Tems’ discography is filled with hits that showcase her versatility and ability to connect deeply with listeners. Here are some of her most iconic tracks:
1. Try Me
This breakout single put Tems on the map with its empowering lyrics and emotional delivery. “Try Me” remains one of her most celebrated songs.
2. Damages
A standout track from her For Broken Ears EP, “Damages” is a declaration of independence and self-worth, blending Afrobeat with soulful melodies.
3. Free Mind
“Free Mind” is a reflective track that explores themes of mental freedom and self-discovery. It became a sleeper hit, resonating with fans worldwide.
4. Essence (with Wizkid)
Arguably her biggest hit, “Essence,” a collaboration with Wizkid, became the anthem of summer 2021. The track earned global acclaim and a Grammy nomination.
5. Found (ft. Brent Faiyaz)
“Found” is a smooth R&B track from her If Orange Was a Place EP that showcases her ability to create globally appealing music.
6. Crazy Tings
This playful and rhythmic song highlights Tems’ versatility and knack for storytelling.
7. Higher
Another gem from For Broken Ears, “Higher” is a soulful track that showcases her vocal depth and introspective lyrics.
Recent Songs
Tems continues to release music that resonates with fans and expands her global appeal. Some of her recent songs include:
1. No Woman No Cry
This emotional cover of Bob Marley’s classic was featured in the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, earning her widespread acclaim.
2. Free Mind
Originally released in 2020, “Free Mind” found renewed success in 2023, charting globally and becoming a fan favorite.
3. Lift Me Up (with Rihanna)
Tems co-wrote this track for Rihanna, featured in the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. The song received critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination.
4. Vibe Out
“Vibe Out,” a smooth and melodic track from If Orange Was a Place, continues to showcase Tems’ ability to blend Afrobeat with neo-soul.
Albums and EPs
Though she hasn’t released a full-length album yet, Tems has dropped two critically acclaimed EPs:
- For Broken Ears (2020) – Her debut EP introduced her as a soulful and introspective artist, featuring tracks like “Damages” and “Free Mind.”
- If Orange Was a Place (2021) – A follow-up project that explores themes of love, growth, and resilience. It includes tracks like “Crazy Tings” and “Found.”
Awards and Achievements
Tems’ talent and influence have earned her numerous accolades, both locally and internationally:
- BET Awards:
- Best International Act (2022)
- Viewer’s Choice Award for “Essence” (2022)
- Grammy Awards:
- Winner: Best Melodic Rap Performance for “Wait For U” (with Future and Drake, 2023)
- Nominated: Best Global Music Performance for “Essence” (2022)
- NAACP Image Awards:
- Outstanding International Song for “Essence” (2022)
- MTV Africa Music Awards:
- Best Female Artist (2021)
- Soul Train Awards:
- Song of the Year for “Essence” (2022)
- Billboard Recognition:
- First Nigerian artist to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 as a featured artist on Future’s “Wait For U.”
Tems’ ability to transcend cultural and geographic boundaries has solidified her status as a global star.
Collaborations
Tems has worked with some of the biggest names in the global music industry. Her collaborations have further elevated her profile and expanded her audience:
1. Wizkid
Their collaboration on “Essence” became a cultural phenomenon, earning international acclaim and a Grammy nomination.
2. Future and Drake
Tems featured on Future’s chart-topping track “Wait For U,” which also included Drake. The song won a Grammy and introduced her to a broader audience.
3. Rihanna
Tems co-wrote “Lift Me Up,” performed by Rihanna for the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, showcasing her songwriting prowess.
4. Brent Faiyaz
Their duet on “Found” is a highlight of her If Orange Was a Place EP, blending Afrobeat with contemporary R&B.
5. Beyoncé
Tems’ vocals were sampled on Beyoncé’s track “Move,” from the Renaissance album, further cementing her status as a global icon.
Impact and Legacy
Tems has redefined the boundaries of Afrobeat, infusing it with elements of R&B, soul, and alternative music. Her success has paved the way for a new wave of Nigerian artists, especially women, to explore diverse sounds and challenge traditional industry norms.
Beyond her music, Tems is celebrated for her authenticity and commitment to empowering women through her art. Her journey from an independent artist to a global sensation serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tems
1. What is Tems’ real name?
Tems’ full name is Temilade Openiyi.
2. When did Tems start her music career?
Tems began her professional music career in 2018 with the release of her debut single, “Mr Rebel.”
3. What genre of music does Tems perform?
Tems’ music is a blend of Afrobeat, R&B, and neo-soul.
4. What is Tems’ biggest song?
Some of Tems’ biggest songs include “Essence” (with Wizkid), “Try Me,” and “Wait For U” (with Future and Drake).
5. How many EPs has Tems released?
Tems has released two EPs: For Broken Ears (2020) and If Orange Was a Place (2021).
6. Has Tems won any Grammys?
Yes, Tems won a Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance for her feature on Future’s “Wait For U” in 2023.
7. Is Tems signed to a record label?
Tems initially operated as an independent artist but later signed a management deal with RCA Records in the US.
8. What inspired Tems’ stage name?
Her stage name, “Tems,” is a shortened version of her first name, Temilade.
9. Where is Tems from?
Tems is from Lagos, Nigeria, though she spent part of her childhood in the UK.
10. How can fans connect with Tems?
Tems is active on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, where she shares updates about her music and life.
Personal Life
Tems maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing instead on her music and artistic expression. She has spoken openly about her struggles with anxiety and self-doubt, using her platform to encourage others to embrace their authentic selves.
Conclusion
Tems’ journey from a budding artist in Lagos to a global music sensation is a testament to her talent, resilience, and authenticity. With her powerful voice, introspective lyrics, and groundbreaking collaborations, Tems continues to push boundaries and redefine Afrobeat on the global stage.
As Tems evolves as an artist, her legacy as a trailblazer and cultural icon remains secure. Her story is not just one of success but of breaking barriers, inspiring a new generation to dream big and stay true to themselves.
