Nigerian R&B sensation, Tems, who has both Grammy and Oscar nominations to her name, recently graced Hot 97’s Ebro, Peter Rosenberg, and Laura Stylez show. During the interview, she delved into her unique music-making process, revealing her penchant for freestyling and experimenting with beats until she crafts songs deeply infused with her current emotions.
Tems also shared insights into her remarkable journey, highlighting the unwavering support she received from her mother. Despite graduating with a degree in Economics, her heart always belonged to the world of music.
She explained how music became her outlet for expressing her feelings, especially during her upbringing when she didn’t have many close friends. She even disclosed her early dream of becoming a jazz singer and performing in bars. Despite her seemingly reserved nature, Tems emphasized her resolute determination to pursue her musical talents and career.
Born as Temilade Openiyi on June 11, professionally known as Tems, she’s become a renowned Nigerian singer and songwriter. Her breakthrough came with the 2019 release of her single “Try Me,” but her career skyrocketed after her feature on Wizkid’s 2020 hit “Essence,” which garnered a Grammy Award nomination. In the same year, she also collaborated with Drake on “Fountains.”
Tems has amassed numerous accolades throughout her career, including Grammy Awards, NAACP Image Awards, BET Awards, and Soul Train Music Awards. Not just an extraordinary singer, she’s also a talented songwriter and co-wrote Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up,” which earned Academy Award and Golden Globe Award nominations. In 2021, Tems mentioned her favorite collaboration in her single “Found,” recorded with Brent Faiyaz.