Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems, began releasing independent music in Lagos, developing a distinctive alternative R&B sound that blended Afrobeats influences with soulful, introspective songwriting.
Tems gained significant international attention through her guest vocal on Wizkid's 'Essence,' and her collaboration with Future and Drake on 'Wait for U' made her the first African female artist to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
In 2023, Tems won a Grammy Award, becoming the first African woman ever to win a Grammy for a solo performance, a landmark recognition of her distinctive artistic voice within the broader Afrobeats and R&B landscape.
Tems has continued building an internationally significant music career, contributing to major film soundtracks including Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and remains one of the most influential voices in contemporary African music.
- First African woman to win a Grammy Award for a solo performance (2023)
- First African female artist to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart
- Built an internationally significant career blending alternative R&B and Afrobeats
- Contributed to major film soundtracks including Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
- One of the most influential contemporary voices in African music
- A distinctive artistic voice can achieve historic recognition. Her genuinely original sound, rather than imitation of existing styles, drove her landmark Grammy win.
- Featured collaborations can build toward major solo recognition. Her guest vocals on major hits preceded her own historic Grammy achievement.
- Firsts in major international awards carry lasting significance. Her Grammy win expanded what was considered possible for African artists at the award's highest level.
- Music can extend into film through significant soundtrack contributions. Her work on major film scores extended her artistic reach beyond music alone.