Tems: The Rise of a Nigerian Music Icon

Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, has become a global sensation, captivating audiences with her soulful voice, introspective lyrics, and genre-blending sound. As a Nigerian singer-songwriter and record producer, Tems has redefined what it means to be an African artist on the world stage. From her humble beginnings in Lagos to collaborating with music giants like Drake, Wizkid, and Beyoncé, her journey is a testament to talent, resilience, and authenticity. In this article, we dive deep into Tems Biography, explore Tems Net Worth, uncover details about Tems relationship status, highlight Tems age, and celebrate Tems music career and achievements. Let’s embark on a comprehensive exploration of everything you need to know about this trailblazing artist.

Tems Biography: Early Life and Roots

A Childhood Shaped by Music and Solitude

Tems was born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria, to a Nigerian mother and a British-Nigerian father. Her full name, Temilade Openiyi, reflects her Yoruba heritage, a cultural identity that resonates in her music. Tems age as of April 2025 is 29, but her wisdom and artistry suggest a depth beyond her years. Growing up, Tems experienced a unique blend of cultures due to her family’s brief relocation to the United Kingdom shortly after her birth. However, her parents’ divorce when she was five brought her back to Nigeria, where she was raised primarily by her mother in neighborhoods like Ilupeju, Lekki, and Ajah.

As a shy and reserved child, Tems found solace in music. Her mother, a devout Christian, exposed her to gospel music, while Tems secretly explored secular artists like Destiny’s Child, Aaliyah, and Lil Wayne on her Walkman. This early exposure shaped her eclectic taste, blending R&B, soul, and Afrobeats. Tems Biography reveals a young girl who was often solitary, writing poetry and songs to express emotions she couldn’t voice. Her brother’s guitar became her practice tool, and school choir sessions honed her vocal skills.

Education and Early Ambitions

Tems attended Dowen College in Lekki, Lagos, where her music teacher, Mr. Sosan, recognized her raw talent. He encouraged her to sing from the heart, fostering confidence in her deep, distinctive voice—a trait that would later define her sound. Despite her passion for music, Tems pursued a practical path, studying economics at Monash University South Africa in Johannesburg. This decision reflected the societal pressures many Nigerian youths face to prioritize “stable” careers over creative pursuits.

During her university years, Tems continued writing music and teaching herself production skills via YouTube tutorials. Her determination to control her artistry set the stage for her future as a self-produced artist. Tems Biography underscores her ability to balance academics with her creative aspirations, a duality that fueled her eventual leap into music.

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Tems Music Career: From Local Talent to Global Star

The Beginning: Quitting the 9-to-5

In 2018, at the age of 23, Tems made a bold decision that would change her life. Frustrated with her digital marketing job, she quit to pursue music full-time. Inspired by a devotional message urging her to follow her calling, Tems dove headfirst into her craft. She released her debut single, “Mr Rebel,” on July 18, 2018—a self-produced track that showcased her powerful vocals and introspective lyrics. The song introduced Tems to Nigeria’s Alté scene, a subculture blending Afrobeat, soul, and hip-hop.

“Mr Rebel” was a modest hit, but it was her 2019 single “Try Me” that catapulted Tems into the spotlight. The anthem of resilience resonated with listeners, earning millions of streams and radio airplay across Nigeria. Tems music career was officially underway, and her unique sound—described as a fusion of alternative R&B and Afrobeats—began to turn heads.

Breakthrough with “For Broken Ears”

In 2020, Tems released her debut EP, For Broken Ears, a seven-track project that solidified her place in the Nigerian music scene. Produced primarily by Tems, the EP featured hits like “Damages” and “Free Mind.” “Damages” topped the Nigerian Apple Music chart and peaked at number six on the TurnTable Top 50, while “Free Mind” became a TikTok sensation, later charting on the Billboard Hot 100. The EP’s introspective themes and raw emotion resonated with fans, earning Tems praise as a voice for the heartbroken and hopeful.

That same year, Tems caught the attention of international artists. She collaborated with Davido and Khalid on a remix of “Know Your Worth,” showcasing her versatility. However, it was her feature on Wizkid’s “Essence” from the album Made in Lagos that marked her global breakthrough. Released on October 30, 2020, “Essence” became a cultural phenomenon, blending Afrobeats with R&B in a way that captivated audiences worldwide.

The “Essence” Phenomenon and Global Rise

“Essence,” featuring Tems, was a slow-burning hit that dominated charts in 2021. The song’s remix, with Justin Bieber, peaked at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, earning Tems her first Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Performance. The track topped the BBC 1Xtra Airplay Chart and garnered Tems awards like two NAACP Image Awards and a Soul Train Music Award. Tems music career soared as “Essence” became a summer anthem, cementing her status as a global Afrobeats ambassador.

In September 2021, Tems released her second EP, If Orange Was a Place, featuring hits like “Crazy Tings.” Signed to RCA Records, she worked with producer GuiltyBeatz, marking a shift from her self-production roots. The EP was critically acclaimed for its polished sound and emotional depth, further showcasing Tems’ growth as an artist.

Collaborations with Music Royalty

Tems’ talent attracted collaborations with some of the biggest names in music. In 2021, she featured on Drake’s “Fountains” from Certified Lover Boy, which debuted at number 26 on the Hot 100. In 2022, her vocals from “Higher” were sampled in Future’s “Wait for U,” featuring Drake, which debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. This milestone made Tems the first African artist to achieve a number-one debut and the second Nigerian artist to top the chart.

Tems also contributed to the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, covering Bob Marley’s “No Woman, No Cry” and co-writing Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up.” The latter earned her nominations for an Academy Award, Golden Globe, and Grammy, making her the first Nigerian artist nominated in those categories. In 2022, she collaborated with Beyoncé on “Move” from Renaissance, further solidifying her place among music’s elite.

Born in the Wild: A Debut Album Triumph

In June 2024, Tems released her debut studio album, Born in the Wild, a commercial and critical success. The album peaked at number 56 on the Billboard 200, the highest for a Nigerian female artist, and reached the top 30 in the UK, Netherlands, and Switzerland. Singles like “Burning” and “Love Me JeJe” showcased Tems’ evolution, blending Afrobeats, R&B, and soul. “Love Me JeJe” won Best African Music Performance at the 67th Grammy Awards, while the album earned a nomination for Best Global Music Album.

To promote Born in the Wild, Tems performed at Coachella, appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and headlined NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert. Her ongoing Born in the Wild Tour has taken her across the globe, proving her star power. Tems music career continues to ascend, with no signs of slowing down.

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Tems Net Worth: Building Wealth Through Music

Estimating Tems Net Worth

As of 2025, Tems Net Worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million, though some sources suggest it could be higher due to her recent successes. Her wealth comes from multiple streams, including music sales, streaming royalties, live performances, brand endorsements, and strategic collaborations. Tems’ ability to produce her own music early on allowed her to retain creative control and maximize earnings, a rarity in the industry.

Sources of Income

• Music Sales and Streaming: Tems has amassed over 2.4 billion streams on Spotify and 385 million views on YouTube, with hits like “Essence,” “Free Mind,” and “Love Me JeJe” driving significant royalties. Her debut album’s success further boosted her earnings.
• Live Performances: From headlining the 2023 NBA All-Star Game halftime show to her global tour, Tems commands high fees for performances. Her Coachella and Met Gala appearances in 2023 and 2024 added to her visibility and income.
• Collaborations: Working with artists like Drake, Beyoncé, and Rihanna has not only elevated Tems’ profile but also her financial portfolio. Her songwriting credits, particularly for “Lift Me Up,” likely earned substantial royalties.
• Endorsements and Partnerships: While Tems keeps a low profile regarding brand deals, her influence in fashion and music makes her a prime candidate for lucrative partnerships. Her appearance at the Met Gala in 2023 sparked discussions about potential fashion collaborations.
• Radio and Media: Tems hosts “Leading Vibe Radio” on Apple Music with her manager and brother, a platform that highlights her influence and may contribute to her income.

Financial Milestones

Tems Net Worth reflects her rapid rise from a self-taught artist to a Grammy-winning star. Her Grammy win for “Wait for U” in 2023 and multiple nominations in 2024 and 2025 have increased her marketability. Unlike some peers, Tems maintains a modest lifestyle, focusing on her craft rather than flashy displays of wealth. She owns a Land Rover, Hyundai, and Mercedes, but details about her properties remain private, aligning with her low-key persona.

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Tems Relationship: Love Life and Privacy

Keeping Romance Out of the Spotlight

When it comes to Tems relationship status, the singer remains fiercely private. As of 2025, Tems is reportedly single, with no confirmed romantic partners. Her focus on music and personal growth has kept her love life out of the public eye, a deliberate choice in an industry often obsessed with celebrity relationships.

Past Rumors and Speculations

Rumors once linked Tems to Wizkid, fueled by their chemistry on “Essence.” However, both artists have clarified they share a professional and sibling-like bond, with Wizkid describing Tems as a “little sister.” In 2022, a man named Dubby, claiming to be Tems’ ex-boyfriend, alleged he cheated on her with her best friend before her fame. Tems never addressed these claims, and they remain unverified, fading into obscurity as her career soared.

Tems’ Philosophy on Love

In interviews, Tems has expressed that love, for her, extends beyond romance to include self-love and community. Her music often explores themes of heartbreak and healing, suggesting personal experiences shape her art, but she keeps specifics private. Tems relationship with her fans, whom she calls her “Rebel Gang,” is one of mutual respect and authenticity, reflecting her values more than any tabloid speculation.

Tems Age and Cultural Impact

A Young Icon with Timeless Influence

At Tems age of 29, she has achieved what many artists spend decades pursuing. Her youth belies the maturity of her music, which resonates with listeners across generations. Tems’ ability to bridge Nigerian and global audiences has made her a cultural ambassador, popularizing Afrobeats and Alté on an unprecedented scale.

Redefining African Artistry

Tems’ impact transcends music. As one of Nigeria’s few female producers, she’s broken barriers in a male-dominated industry. Her refusal to conform to sexualized stereotypes—choosing instead to prioritize her voice and story—has inspired countless young women. Tems’ fashion choices, from her bold Met Gala gown to her Coachella looks, blend African pride with global appeal, making her a style icon.

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Achievements of Tems: A Trophy Case of Firsts

Tems’ career is studded with accolades that highlight her pioneering role. Here’s a detailed look at her achievements:

• Grammy Awards: Tems won Best Melodic Rap Performance for “Wait for U” in 2023, becoming the first female Nigerian artist to win a Grammy. In 2025, she won Best African Music Performance for “Love Me JeJe,” with nominations for Best Global Music Album (Born in the Wild) and Best R&B Song (“Burning”).
• Academy Award Nomination: In 2023, Tems was nominated for Best Original Song for “Lift Me Up,” making her the first Nigerian artist nominated at the Oscars.
• Golden Globe Nomination: “Lift Me Up” also earned a 2023 nomination for Best Original Song—Motion Picture.
• Billboard Women in Music Award: In 2024, Tems became the first African artist to win the Breakthrough Award.
• BET Awards: Tems won Best International Act in 2022, the first African female to do so, and Best Collaboration for “Essence.”
• NAACP Image Awards: She secured two awards for “Essence” in 2022.
• Soul Train Music Awards: Tems won Best New Artist in 2022 and Favorite R&B Song for “Essence.”
• American Music Awards: She won Favorite Hip-Hop Song for “Wait for U” in 2022.
• Soundcity MVP Awards: Tems was named Female MVP in 2023.
• The Future Awards Africa: She was included in the Class of 2020.
• Billboard Milestones: Tems was the first African artist to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Wait for U” and the first female Nigerian producer with a song surpassing 100 million Spotify streams.

Her performances at high-profile events like the 2023 NBA All-Star Game and Coachella, along with her Tiny Desk Concert, have cemented her as a live-act powerhouse. Tems’ nominations at the Headies, African Awards (USA), and more reflect her dominance in both local and global scenes.

Challenges and Triumphs

Overcoming Industry Barriers

Tems’ journey hasn’t been without obstacles. As a woman in Nigeria’s music industry, she faced skepticism and pressure to conform. Her deep voice, once a source of insecurity due to childhood bullying, became her signature, thanks to her music teacher’s encouragement. Tems also navigated a 2020 arrest in Uganda alongside Omah Lay for violating COVID-19 restrictions during a performance. The charges were dropped after two days, but the incident highlighted the risks artists face abroad.

A Voice for Authenticity

Tems’ refusal to compromise her vision sets her apart. She’s spoken about the challenge of balancing femininity with industry expectations, choosing to let her music speak first. Her self-production skills, learned out of necessity, empowered her to dictate her sound, a rarity for female artists. Tems Biography is a story of triumph over doubt, proving that authenticity can break through even the toughest barriers.

Tems’ Legacy and Future

A Trailblazer for the Next Generation

Tems has redefined what it means to be an African artist. Her music bridges cultures, blending Nigerian rhythms with global sounds in a way that feels universal yet distinctly personal. At Tems age of 29, she’s already a mentor to aspiring artists, using platforms like “Leading Vibe Radio” to uplift creatives, especially African women.

What’s Next for Tems

With Born in the Wild setting a high bar, fans eagerly await Tems’ next moves. Rumors of collaborations with artists like J. Cole and continued tour dates suggest she’s far from done. Her focus on storytelling and emotional depth hints at more genre-defying work to come. Tems music career is poised for even greater heights, with potential ventures into film, fashion, or production.

Tems Net Worth and Long-Term Wealth

As Tems continues to grow, so will Tems Net Worth. Her strategic approach—balancing high-profile collabs with independent projects—ensures longevity. Investments in her craft, like building a home studio, and potential brand deals could push her wealth toward $5 million or more in the coming years.

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Conclusion: Why Tems Matters

Tems is more than a singer; she’s a movement. Her journey from a shy Lagos girl to a Grammy-winning, Oscar-nominated artist is a beacon of hope for dreamers worldwide. Tems Biography reveals a woman who turned adversity into art, using her voice to heal and inspire. Tems Net Worth reflects her success, but it’s her authenticity, resilience, and cultural impact that define her legacy. Whether you’re drawn to her music, curious about Tems relationship status, or inspired by Tems age and achievements, one thing is clear: Tems is here to stay, and the world is better for it.