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Full Biography of Tems (Temilade Openiyi)

Early Life and Background

Temilade Openiyi, professionally known as Tems, was born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria. She is of Nigerian and British heritage. Her father is British, while her mother is Nigerian from the Yoruba ethnic group. Tems spent part of her early childhood in the United Kingdom before returning to Nigeria with her mother after her parents separated.

Growing up, Tems lived in several parts of Lagos, including Ajah, Lekki, and Lagos Island. She attended Dowen College, Lekki, for her secondary education and later studied Economics at Monash South Africa (now part of Monash University). Despite having an academic background, her passion for music remained strong.

Musical Roots and Early Influences

Tems grew up in a home where music was always present. She listened to a wide range of artists including Beyoncé, Lil Wayne, Aaliyah, Asa, Adele, and Frank Ocean. These influences shaped her unique sound—a blend of Afro-soul, R&B, alté, and neo-soul.

She began singing at the age of 5, joined her school choir, and learned to play the piano during her teenage years. By age 15, she was already writing her own songs.

Entry Into Music and Career Beginnings

Tems officially began pursuing music in 2018 after quitting her job in digital marketing to focus fully on recording. She produced many of her early songs by herself, showcasing her talent not only as a singer but also as a songwriter and producer.

Breakout Single: “Mr Rebel” (2018)

Her first single, “Mr Rebel,” introduced her to the alternative music scene. The song received attention for its raw vocals, emotional depth, and unique Afrobeats-soul fusion.

Rise to Fame: “Try Me” (2019)

In 2019, Tems achieved national fame with “Try Me,” a bold, empowering song that quickly went viral. Its success positioned her as one of Nigeria’s rising alternative voices.

International Breakthrough and Global Recognition

Tems’ global ascent began when she was featured on Wizkid’s megahit “Essence” in 2020. The song became one of the greatest Afrobeats records of all time and reached the Billboard Hot 100, peaking inside the Top 10 after a remix featuring Justin Bieber.

"Essence" earned Tems BET Awards, Grammy nominations, and placed her at the forefront of international music conversations.

Debut EP: “For Broken Ears” (2020)

Tems released her debut EP For Broken Ears in 2020. The project included tracks like:

“Damages”
“Ice T”
“Free Mind”

“Free Mind” later became a global hit, charting for weeks on Billboard and trending internationally for years after release.

Global Superstar Era

2021 marked Tems’ transition from rising Nigerian star to global artist.

Featuring on Drake’s Album (2021)

Drake featured Tems on his album Certified Lover Boy on the track “Fountains,” giving her massive exposure in North America and worldwide.

Signing With RCA Records (2021)

Tems signed an international record deal with RCA Records, joining other global artists under the label.

Grammy Achievement and Hollywood Impact

Grammy Win (2023)

Tems won her first Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance for her contribution to Future’s “Wait For U” featuring Drake. This made her one of the few Nigerian female artists to win a Grammy.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

Tems co-wrote and performed on “Lift Me Up” by Rihanna for the movie Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The song became a global anthem and earned Oscar and Golden Globe nominations.

Second EP: “If Orange Was a Place” (2021)

Her sophomore EP featured songs like:

“Crazy Tings”
“Avoid Things”
“Found” ft. Brent Faiyaz

This project strengthened her global fanbase and highlighted her refined artistry.

Musical Style and Artistry

Tems is known for:

Deep, soulful voice
Alternative Afro-fusion sound
Emotionally rich songwriting
Unique blend of soul, R&B, and African rhythms

Her music stands out for its vulnerability, authenticity, and atmospheric production.

Awards and Major Achievements

Tems has collected numerous recognitions, including:

Grammy Award
BET Award (Best International Act)
Soul Train Music Awards
NAACP Image Awards
Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 Hits
TIME Magazine recognition as a global rising star
Oscar and Golden Globe nominations (through songwriting)

She is one of the most decorated Nigerian female artists globally.

Personal Life and Personality

Tems is known for maintaining a private, low-key lifestyle. She is introverted, spiritual, and deeply connected to creativity. Though she avoids controversy, her confidence and calm personality continue to inspire a new generation of African women in music.

She often speaks about:

The importance of self-expression
Overcoming fear
Staying true to identity
Representing Nigeria proudly

Discography at a Glance

EPs

For Broken Ears (2020)
If Orange Was a Place (2021)

Hit Singles

“Try Me”
“Damages”
“Free Mind”
“Crazy Tings”

Major Features

Wizkid – “Essence”
Future – “Wait For U”
Drake – “Fountains”

Impact and Legacy

Tems has become a symbol of:

African excellence
Female empowerment
Musical creativity
Global Afrobeats representation

She has broken numerous records for African women, opened doors internationally, and continues to influence global soundscapes with her distinctive style.

Conclusion

Tems’ journey from a quiet Lagos girl to an internationally celebrated superstar is one of perseverance, talent, and evolution. Today, she stands among the most influential African artists in the world, and her story continues to inspire millions.