Tems, born Temilade Openiyi on June 11, 1995, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer whose soulful voice and deeply expressive music have earned her global acclaim. She first rose to prominence in 2020 after featuring on Wizkid’s chart-topping single “Essence”, which peaked at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 following a remix with Justin Bieber. The hit earned her a Grammy Award nomination and established her as one of Africa’s most compelling new voices in contemporary music.

That same year, Tems was featured on “Fountains” by Canadian rapper Drake, further expanding her international recognition. In September 2020, she released her debut extended play, For Broken Ears, a project that introduced the world to her introspective lyricism and distinctive sound. The following year, she signed with RCA Records and released her second EP, If Orange Was a Place (2021), which included the fan-favorite track “Found” featuring Brent Faiyaz.

In 2022, Tems achieved a historic milestone when Future sampled her vocals from “Higher” for his global hit “Wait for U”, also featuring Drake. The song debuted atop the Billboard Hot 100, making Tems the first African female artist—and the second Nigerian overall—to reach number one on the chart. The track went on to win the Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance, cementing her position as an international powerhouse.

That same year, Tems recorded a heartfelt rendition of Bob Marley’s “No Woman, No Cry” for the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, and her earlier single “Free Mind” from her debut EP became a sleeper hit, debuting on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaking at number 46. It later broke the record for the longest-charting number one song by a female artist on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart.

Tems also co-wrote and provided background vocals for Rihanna’s emotional ballad “Lift Me Up”, the lead single from the same Marvel film soundtrack. The song earned her nominations at the Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and Grammy Awards, solidifying her reputation as one of the most influential songwriters and vocalists of her generation.

In 2024, Tems released her highly anticipated debut studio album, Born in the Wild, to widespread critical acclaim. The album debuted in the top 30 across several countries, including the United Kingdom, where it peaked at number 24. She subsequently embarked on the Born in the Wild World Tour, captivating audiences with her powerful performances and authentic artistry.

At the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, Tems made history once again, winning Best African Music Performance for “Love Me JeJe”, while her album Born in the Wild was nominated for Best Global Music Album and its third single “Burning” received a nod for Best R&B Song. With these achievements, Tems became the first Nigerian artist to win multiple Grammy Awards, further cementing her global legacy.

Musical Style

Tems’ music blends elements of Afrobeat, R&B, soul, and alternative soundscapes, characterized by her husky, emotive vocals and raw storytelling. Her lyrics often explore themes of love, freedom, resilience, and self-discovery. Known for her minimalist production and atmospheric melodies, Tems has carved a unique sonic identity that bridges the gap between African rhythm and global soul.

Awards and Recognition

• Winner – Best Melodic Rap Performance, Grammy Awards 2023 (Wait for U with Future & Drake)
• Winner – Best African Music Performance, Grammy Awards 2025 (Love Me JeJe)
• Nominee – Best Global Music Album, Grammy Awards 2025 (Born in the Wild)
• Nominee – Best R&B Song, Grammy Awards 2025 (Burning)
• Nominee – Academy Award for Best Original Song (Lift Me Up with Rihanna)
• Nominee – Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song (Lift Me Up)
• Winner – BET Award for Best International Act (2022)
• Winner – Soul Train Award for Best Collaboration (Essence with Wizkid & Justin Bieber)