Temilade Openiyi (born 1995), known as Tems, is a Nigerian singer-songwriter who achieved global stardom. Her feature on Wizkid's "Essence" became a worldwide hit, reaching the Billboard Hot 100 top 10. Tems won a Grammy Award for her feature on Future's "Wait for U" (2023). Her EP "For Broken Ears" and singles like "Free Mind" showcase her unique alternative R&B sound. Tems represents the new generation of Nigerian artists dominating global music charts.


SOULFUL TRAILBLAZER:
Tems’ airy contralto and minimalist production carve out a spiritual alt-R&B niche. Early releases like Try Me and her EP For Broken Ears (2020) introduced introspective songwriting and cinematic soundscapes.

GLOBAL ASCENT:
Essence with Wizkid became the first Nigerian-led track to break the Billboard Hot 100 top 10, earning Grammy and BET nominations. Tems won a Grammy (2023) for Best Melodic Rap Performance on Future’s Wait For U and co-wrote Rihanna’s Lift Me Up for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

CREATIVE CONTROL:
She crafts and produces much of her music, directing visual aesthetics that mix afrocentric futurism with natural landscapes. Sold-out tours across Europe and North America showcase stripped-down performances that amplify her vocal purity.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE:
Tems champions authenticity, encouraging African women to own their voices. She supports mental-health organisations, mentors young songwriters, and funds creative residencies for women in music production.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 11 June 1995 in Lagos, Nigeria.
- Education: Dowen College, Monash South Africa (Economics).
- Awards: Grammy winner, BET Best International Act (2022), Soul Train Awards.
- Signature sound: atmospheric synths, sparse percussion, emotionally raw lyrics.