Celebrities

The rise of Tems as a breakout star in the Nigerian music industry

By Victoria Adeleke

June 11, 2023

Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer who has risen to become one of the breakout stars in the Nigerian music industry. She burst onto the scene in 2018 with her debut single “Mr Rebel,” which quickly gathered a following on social media. Since then, she has enjoyed a steady rise to fame, thanks to her unique sound and style.

One of the things that have made Tems stand out from the crowd is her ability to blend different genres and create a sound that is uniquely hers. Her music is a fusion of Afrobeat, R&B, and soul, and she is known for her powerful vocals and introspective lyrics that deal with love, heartbreak, and personal struggles.

Tems’ breakout moment came in 2019 when she collaborated with rapper, Wizkid on the hit song “Essence.” The song became an instant hit, topping charts in Nigeria and beyond, and earning her a legion of fans. Her performance on the track was widely praised for its emotive power, and it helped to establish her as one of the most exciting talents in the Nigerian music scene.

In 2020, Tems released her debut EP, “For Broken Ears,” which brought her music to a wider audience. The EP features six tracks, including her breakout hit “Mr Rebel,” and received critical acclaim for its poetic lyrics and catchy sound. It debuted at No. 1 on the Apple Music chart in Nigeria and cemented her status as one of the most exciting breakout stars on the Nigerian music scene.

Since then, Tems has continued to build her brand, collaborating with a range of artists, including Davido, Omah Lay, and Khalid. She has also been featured on numerous high-profile playlists, including Apple Music’s “Africa Rising,” and has garnered a massive following on social media.

Overall, Tems’ rise to fame can be attributed to her unique sound and style, her emotive vocals, and her ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level. With her talent and dedication to her craft, she is poised to become one of the biggest stars in Nigerian music and beyond.