- Tems first captured international attention with her feature on Wizkid’s 2020 global hit “Esseance”, a song that brought her haunting voice to millions of listeners.
- Her ascent signals a new era in which African artists, particularly women, are no longer waiting for validation they are commanding it.
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In just a few short years, Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems, has emerged as one of the most powerful and transformative voices in African music.
With her ethereal vocals, raw emotional depth, and fearless genre fusion, Tems is reshaping the sound of Afrobeats and altering global perceptions of African music. Her influence is both undeniable and rapidly growing.
Tems first captured international attention with her feature on Wizkid’s 2020 global hit “Essence,” which introduced her haunting voice to millions. While this collaboration marked her breakout moment, it was her authenticity and unique artistry that helped her stand out in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Fusing Afrobeats, R&B, and alté, Tems creates a distinct sonic identity characterized by introspection, vulnerability, and strength. Her artistic brilliance is matched by her groundbreaking achievements: she became the first African female artist to surpass 1 billion streams on Spotify and the first female Afrobeats artist to be featured at major international awards, including the Oscars and the Met Gala.
These milestones signify more than personal success; they represent a seismic shift in the global music industry’s perception of African women. Her inclusion in the Time 100 Next list in 2023 underscored her cultural impact, recognizing her not just as a musician but as a visionary and trailblazer whose influence extends into fashion, identity, and representation.
Tems’ rise signals a new era where African artists, particularly women, are no longer waiting for validation—they are commanding it. By refusing to be confined by genre expectations, she is redefining what African music can be.
Her introspective lyrics, unconventional production choices, and unapologetically personal style challenge the notion that African music must fit neatly into the Afrobeats mold.
Tems expands the creative possibilities for African artists, proving that alternative, soulful, and minimalist approaches have a place on the global stage. While artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Diamond Platnumz, and Ayra Starr contribute to this renaissance, Tems stands out by shifting the tone of the movement, creating space for deeper emotional expression, individuality, and experimentation.
For many young African women in music, Tems embodies what is possible. Her journey from Lagos studios to international stages is a testament to the power of authenticity. She has opened doors for artists who once feared being "too alternative" or "too soft" to thrive, inspiring the next generation.
Her influence is evident in the work of rising stars who blend R&B, soul, and traditional African rhythms into something uniquely their own. They are not just following in her footsteps; they are sprinting through the doors she has kicked open.
Tems’ Grammy nominations, viral performances, and crossover appeal highlight her role as not just a musical artist but a cultural architect. Her impact extends beyond music into fashion, social discourse, and representation.
Tems embodies a new standard of African excellence—one that is introspective, innovative, and global. By reshaping the narrative around African music, she ensures that future generations of artists can dream bigger, experiment freely, and be celebrated for their authenticity. Her influence is already historic, and it’s only just beginning.
