FROM LAGOS TO THE WORLD: THE RISE OF TEMS

Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has become one of Africa’s most recognisable voices, building a global career around her distinctive sound, powerful vocals and unapologetic artistic identity.

From releasing music independently in Lagos to earning international recognition and becoming one of the leading figures in the global rise of African music, Tems’ journey has been defined by patience, consistency and a sound that is uniquely hers.

THE BEGINNING

Born Temilade Openiyi, Tems grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, where she developed an early passion for music.

Unlike many artists who immediately chase the mainstream sound, Tems gradually developed her own musical identity, drawing influences from R&B, soul and Afrobeats.

In 2018, she introduced herself to a wider audience with “Mr Rebel,” a record that showcased the vocal style and alternative sound that would later become closely associated with her.

The song helped establish Tems as an independent artist to watch and gave listeners an early glimpse of what she could become.

Tems continued to gain momentum with songs including “Try Me,” further establishing herself within Nigeria’s alternative music scene.

Her music stood out because of its simplicity, atmosphere and vocal delivery. Rather than trying to fit completely into the existing Afrobeats formula, Tems created a sound that allowed her personality to remain at the centre.

Her growing reputation eventually led to the release of her debut EP, For Broken Ears, in 2020.

The project featured songs such as “Damages” and “These Days” and gave fans a deeper look into her artistry.

It also confirmed that Tems was more than a promising new voice — she was developing into an artist with a clear musical identity.

THE “ESSENCE” MOMENT

Then came the record that changed everything.

Tems appeared alongside Wizkid on “Essence,” released in 2020 as part of Wizkid’s Made in Lagos album.

The song gradually became a global phenomenon, receiving widespread acclaim and exposing Tems to audiences far beyond Africa.

Her contribution to the record became one of its most memorable elements, with her vocals helping create the laid-back, soulful atmosphere that made “Essence” such a standout.

The song eventually earned major international recognition and became an important moment in the global expansion of Afrobeats.

For Tems, it was the breakthrough that took her from being an exciting Nigerian artist to becoming a name recognised around the world.

Tems did not allow the success of “Essence” to define the limits of her career.

She continued developing her artistry through projects including If Orange Was a Place, while appearing on major international collaborations.

Her ability to move between Afrobeats, R&B and soul without losing her identity became one of her biggest strengths.

She also continued attracting attention from some of the biggest names in global music, proving that her appeal extended well beyond the African market.

Her songwriting and vocal ability became just as important as her presence as a performer.

MAKING HISTORY

As her international profile grew, so did the recognition for her work.

Tems became one of the Nigerian artists helping to redefine how African music is perceived internationally.

Her success at major global award ceremonies further cemented her position among Africa’s leading contemporary artists.

She also became increasingly recognised not simply as a featured vocalist, but as an artist capable of carrying her own projects and creating music that connects with audiences across different markets.

In 2024, Tems entered another important chapter with the release of her debut studio album, Born in the Wild.

The album represented years of artistic development and gave Tems the opportunity to tell her story on her own terms.

Rather than relying solely on the momentum of her biggest collaborations, she used the project to showcase her growth as a songwriter, vocalist and creative.

Born in the Wild further established Tems as an artist whose career could stand independently of any single hit or collaboration.

WHY TEMS MATTERS TO AFRICAN MUSIC

Tems’ impact goes beyond numbers and awards.

Her career represents a different pathway to global success for African artists.

She has shown that an artist can maintain a strong sense of identity while reaching international audiences.

Her music does not feel like an attempt to imitate global pop trends. Instead, Tems has allowed her influences, Nigerian roots and personal experiences to shape a sound that feels authentic.

That authenticity has become one of her greatest advantages.

THE GLOBAL IMPACT

Today, Tems stands among the African artists helping to push the continent’s music further into the global mainstream.

Her journey has also inspired a new generation of artists who see the possibility of building international careers without abandoning their individuality.

From “Mr Rebel” to “Essence,” from independent releases to major global stages, Tems has continued to evolve while maintaining the qualities that first made audiences pay attention.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR TEMS?

Tems is no longer simply an emerging Nigerian artist looking for her big break.

She has already established herself as a global star.

The next stage of her career will be about longevity - continuing to evolve, expanding her catalogue and building an even bigger legacy within African and global music.

Her story is still unfolding, but one thing is already clear:

Tems did not need to change who she was to reach the world. She simply made the world listen.

Tems’ rise is one of the most compelling stories in the modern African music movement.

She represents a generation of African artists proving that global success does not require sacrificing identity.

From Lagos to the world, Tems has built her own lane - and the world is still paying attention.