Biography of Tems: Nigerian Singer, Songwriter, and Global Star

Biography of Tems & her Music Career

Early Life and Background

Temilade Openiyi, professionally known as Tems, was born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria. She grew up in a multicultural environment, influenced by her Nigerian roots and international music exposure. From a young age, Tems developed a passion for singing, often writing songs and experimenting with sounds.

Tems attended Dowen College, Lagos, and later studied Economics at Monash South Africa (now Monash University, Johannesburg), all while nurturing her dream of becoming a global music icon.

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Musical Beginnings and Breakthrough

Tems officially began her professional career in 2018 with the release of her debut single, “Mr Rebel”, which introduced her powerful vocals and soulful style to the Nigerian music scene. However, it was her 2019 single “Try Me” that propelled her into the spotlight, making her one of the most promising voices in Afrobeat and alternative R&B.

Her international breakthrough came in 2020 after being featured on Wizkid’s global hit “Essence”. The track became a cultural phenomenon, earning her worldwide recognition and a Grammy nomination.

Albums, EPs, and Hit Songs

Tems released her debut EP, “For Broken Ears” (2020), featuring tracks like:

Damages

Ice T

Free Mind (which later became a Billboard Hot 100 hit)

In 2021, she dropped her second EP, “If Orange Was a Place”, which included the hit song Crazy Tings. This solidified her reputation as a versatile artist with a unique fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, and neo-soul.

Some of her most notable collaborations include:

Essence with Wizkid

Fountains with Drake

Wait for U with Future and Drake (which won a Grammy Award in 2023 for Best Melodic Rap Performance)

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Musical Style and Influence

Tems is celebrated for her distinctive husky voice, emotional depth, and genre-bending artistry. Her music often blends Afro-fusion, alternative R&B, and neo-soul, making her one of the most unique sounds to emerge from Africa in recent years.

Her themes revolve around self-discovery, love, freedom, and empowerment, resonating deeply with global audiences.

Awards and Achievements

Grammy Award winner (2023) for Wait for U

BET Award for Best International Act (2022)

NAACP Image Award for her contribution to Essence

Named one of Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Future Stars

Collaborated with global icons like Beyoncé, Drake, Rihanna, and Future

Personal Life

Tems is known for her private lifestyle, preferring to let her music speak for her. Despite her global fame, she continues to represent African excellence on the world stage, inspiring millions of young creatives across the continent.

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