Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems has opened up about the challenges she faced at the beginning of her music career, revealing people didn’t take her seriously when she first ventured into the industry.
“I didn’t feel supported, I didn’t feel safe, I didn’t feel seen,” the “Love Me JeJe” singer shared in recent interviews. Tems emphasized that remaining authentic to herself despite early rejection became the foundation for her eventual breakthrough and global recognition.
The 29-year-old artist won her second Grammy in 2025 for Best African Music Performance for “Love Me JeJe,” cementing her status among the world’s music elite. Tems told CNN, “I didn’t aim to simply become famous. I was myself,” highlighting how authenticity rather than chasing trends drove her artistic journey.
Her reflections come as she launches the Leading Vibe Initiative, a platform designed to help African women gain easier entrance into the music business. Tems believes women are being sidelined in the industry and is committed to clearing a path for the next generation of female African artists.
