Tems

Introduction: A Defining Voice in Global Music

Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer who has become one of the most influential voices in contemporary Afrobeats and global Entertainment. Rising from the vibrant music scene of Lagos, Tems has carved a unique niche with her soul-stirring contralto vocals, introspective lyrics, and a sound that seamlessly blends alternative R&B, soul, and Afrobeats. Her breakthrough came with the 2020 hit "Damages," but it was her iconic feature on Wizkid's "Essence" that catapulted her to international superstardom, making the song a global summer anthem and earning a historic GRAMMY Award nomination. In 2023, she cemented her status by winning her first GRAMMY Award for her contribution to "Wait for U" by Future featuring Drake, becoming a pivotal figure in the ongoing globalization of Nigerian music.

Early Life & Education: The Making of Temilade Openiyi

Temilade Openiyi was born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria. She spent her early years moving between Nigeria and the United Kingdom due to her parents' work, exposing her to a diverse range of cultural and musical influences from a young age. Her mother was a businesswoman and her father an entrepreneur, and she is the only daughter among four children. This transient childhood fostered a sense of introspection that would later define her songwriting.

Her passion for music was ignited early. She began singing in her church choir at age 12, where she developed her vocal control and performance skills. Despite her artistic leanings, Tems pursued a formal education in science. She attended Dowen College in Lekki, Lagos, and later studied Economics at the University of Lagos. However, the pull of music proved irresistible. During her university years, she taught herself how to produce music using YouTube tutorials and the digital audio workstation FL Studio, a decision that would give her unparalleled creative control over her sound. This period of self-discovery and technical learning was crucial in formulating the minimalist, atmospheric production style that accompanies her powerful vocals.

Career & Major Achievements: A Meteoric Rise to the Top

Tems officially began her professional music career in 2018 with the self-released single "Mr Rebel," which garnered modest local attention. However, it was her 2019 debut EP, For Broken Ears, that truly announced her arrival. The project, entirely self-written and self-produced, featured the breakout single "Damages," a song that resonated deeply with listeners across Africa for its raw emotion and vulnerability. The EP's success established Tems as an artist with a distinct, uncompromising vision.

The "Essence" Phenomenon and Global Breakthrough

The turning point in her career arrived in 2020 when she was featured on Wizkid's "Essence" from his acclaimed album Made in Lagos. The song became a cultural milestone, dominating charts worldwide and peaking at No. 9 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 2021. "Essence" was not just a hit; it was a historic moment for Afrobeats, becoming the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 and later earning a GRAMMY Award nomination for Best Global Music Performance. Tems' hauntingly beautiful hook was universally praised as the song's emotional core.

Accolades and Historic Collaborations

Following this success, Tems' trajectory became stratospheric. She released her second EP, If Orange Was a Place, in 2021, which included the hit "Crazy Tings." Her unique voice and style caught the attention of global superstars, leading to groundbreaking collaborations. She was featured on Drake's "Fountains" from his album Certified Lover Boy and, most significantly, on Future's "Wait for U" alongside Drake in 2022. This collaboration achieved a monumental feat:

• Debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making Tems the first Nigerian artist to debut at the top of the chart.
• Won the GRAMMY Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance at the 65th Annual GRAMMY Awards in 2023.
• Earned Tems her first GRAMMY win, a historic achievement for an African female artist.

Further cementing her A-list status, she co-wrote and was featured on Rihanna's "Lift Me Up" for the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack in 2022. The song received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award (Oscar) for Best Original Song and a Golden Globe, highlighting Tems' prowess as a songwriter on the world's biggest stages.

Personal Life & Legacy: The Woman Behind the Music

Despite her massive fame, Tems maintains a relatively private personal life. She is known for her distinctive and bold fashion sense, often incorporating traditional African elements with contemporary high fashion, making her a style icon. Her stage name, a shortened version of her given name Temilade, symbolizes a "crown" or "to crown," reflecting her regal presence and self-assured artistry.

Beyond music, Tems has shown a commitment to philanthropy and social causes. While she often keeps her charitable work private, she has used her platform to speak on issues of self-worth, mental health, and the empowerment of young women. Her music itself—themes of heartbreak, self-discovery, resilience, and liberation—serves as a form of therapy for millions of fans worldwide. Her legacy is already profound: she has broken glass ceilings for African women in music, demonstrated the power of artistic integrity, and played an instrumental role in carrying the Afrobeats sound to unprecedented global heights. She stands as a symbol of a new, sonically adventurous, and fiercely independent generation of African artists.

Net Worth & Business Ventures

As of 2024, Tems' net worth is estimated to be in the multi-million dollar range, a testament to her incredible success in a short period. Her wealth is accrued from multiple streams, including:

• Music Sales and Streaming: Royalties from her own projects and massive global hits like "Essence" and "Wait for U."
• Songwriting Royalties: Lucrative earnings from co-writing credits for major artists like Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Drake.
• Performances: High-value fees from sold-out tours and headline performances at major international festivals.
• Brand Endorsements: Selective partnerships with global brands that align with her image.

While she has been strategic with brand deals, her primary focus remains on building her music and production empire. She founded and leads her own record label, Leading Vibe Ltd, which gives her full ownership and control over her master recordings—a significant and empowering business move in the Entertainment industry. This ownership model positions her for long-term financial success and creative freedom as she continues to shape the future of music from Nigeria and beyond.