In a world where the music industry often demands conformity and image over individuality, Temilade Openiyi, known globally as Tems, has carved a path that is as bold as it is beautiful. With a voice that moves like poetry in motion and a spirit rooted in authenticity, Tems has emerged not only as a musical icon but also as a cultural force, reshaping perceptions and inspiring a new generation of women to embrace their power.
Born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria, Tems is a singer, songwriter, and producer whose meteoric rise has captured the world’s attention. She broke into mainstream consciousness with her soulful blend of alternative R&B and Afrobeats, a sound that transcends genre while remaining unmistakably hers. Her journey is a powerful narrative of self-belief, resilience, and a commitment to staying true to one’s art—making her a fitting honoree for the Adesuwa Inspirational Woman spotlight.
From Quiet Strength to Global Stage
Tems’ early life paints the picture of a quietly determined child. Raised by a single mother after her parents separated, she grew up in a home where strength was modeled every day. She recalls finding solace and purpose in music from a young age—listening to Destiny’s Child, Lauryn Hill, and Asa, whose eclectic styles influenced her distinct sound. Despite Nigeria’s strong musical culture, the industry was (and often still is) heavily male-dominated, with few women daring to lead the way on their own terms.
Tems did not wait for permission.
In 2018, she released her debut single “Mr Rebel,” a track that quickly caught the attention of music lovers for its haunting production and raw, emotionally resonant vocals. Unlike the flashy or hyper-commercial trends dominating radio at the time, Tems’ music was introspective, authentic, and unfiltered. She stood out not because she tried to, but because she refused to be anyone else.
The Breakthrough Moment
Her 2020 breakout track “Try Me” became an anthem for defiance and liberation, resonating deeply with young Africans, especially women, who saw in Tems a reflection of their own desire to be heard. The song, driven by minimal production and powerful lyrics, showcased her ability to capture vulnerability and strength in the same breath.
That same year, her appearance on Wizkid’s global hit “Essence” catapulted her into international stardom. The song, dubbed “the song of the summer” by many in 2021, earned a Grammy nomination and put Tems on the radar of major global artists. Yet even with the accolades, she never compromised her artistry or voice.
An Unapologetic Trailblazer
Tems’ rise has not been without its challenges. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she was arrested alongside fellow Nigerian artist Omah Lay in Uganda due to a concert that allegedly violated local restrictions. The ordeal was a stark reminder of the scrutiny African artists often face and the precarious nature of fame. However, Tems emerged from the experience with even greater resolve.
She embodies the spirit of the Adesuwa Inspirational Woman—a woman who uses her platform not only to break barriers but to speak truth, elevate others, and challenge the status quo. She has spoken openly about battling impostor syndrome, the pressures of fame, and the struggle of staying authentic in an industry that often demands compromise.
Tems is also a rare talent who wears multiple hats with grace. In a male-dominated production space, she produces many of her own tracks, taking creative control of her sound and image. This autonomy sets her apart as not just a performer, but a visionary artist.
A Global Voice with Local Roots
Despite her global fame, Tems has remained deeply connected to her Nigerian roots. She speaks often about the importance of representing her culture on the world stage—not as a gimmick, but as a lived reality. Her music is steeped in the textures and rhythms of Lagos life, but it speaks universally.
From featuring on tracks with Drake and Future to earning a songwriting credit on Beyoncé’s Renaissance album and winning a Grammy for her contribution to Future’s Wait For U, Tems continues to soar. Yet, she remains grounded in her purpose: to make music that heals, empowers, and uplifts.
More Than Music
Tems is more than her voice. She is a symbol of a new kind of African woman—fierce, free, and unwilling to shrink herself for comfort or convenience. Her presence in the fashion world, her understated elegance, and her refusal to conform to beauty standards set by Western norms make her a quiet revolutionary.
She often shows up to award shows and public appearances in Afrocentric designs, natural hairstyles, and minimalist makeup—subtly challenging the glamor-heavy expectations of female celebrities. This authenticity has not only won her fans but has also made her a role model for young girls who see in her a blueprint for being unapologetically themselves.
The Legacy She’s Building
Tems’ story is still unfolding, but her legacy is already taking shape. In an age of viral hits and disposable fame, she represents something far more enduring: substance. She is not just making music; she is crafting narratives, challenging stereotypes, and redefining what it means to be a successful African woman in the global spotlight.
For many, Tems’ success is personal. She is proof that greatness doesn’t always roar—it can whisper, sing, and still shake the world. Her journey is a testament to the power of quiet rebellion, of staying true to one’s vision even when it’s easier to follow the crowd.
As we celebrate her as this month’s Adesuwa Inspirational Woman, we do more than applaud her achievements—we recognize the revolution she leads. In Tems, the world sees the future of African creativity: bold, boundless, and brilliantly feminine.
