Nigerian Grammy Award-winning singer Tems has offered one of her most personal interviews to date, speaking candidly about her journey to global stardom, her upcoming music and her commitment to helping the next generation of African female artists. Appearing as one of the featured stars in the latest edition of British Vogue, the singer reflected on how her life has changed since becoming one of Africa’s biggest musical exports while making it clear that success has not altered her purpose.
Now recognised as one of the world’s leading voices in contemporary music, Tems says she is no longer seeking validation from the industry. Instead, she is focused on creating honest music, expanding opportunities for women and ensuring African artists continue to shape the future of global entertainment.
From Lagos Dreamer to Global Superstar
Born Temilade Openiyi, Tems has experienced one of the fastest rises in African music history.
Her breakthrough came in 2020 with the release of For Broken Ears, but it was her collaboration with Wizkid on the global hit Essence that transformed her into an international sensation. The song became the first Nigerian track to enter the Billboard Hot 10, opening doors that would soon lead to collaborations with Drake, Future, Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, Rihanna and Coldplay.
Since then, Tems has collected two Grammy Awards, headlined major festivals including Glastonbury, and established herself as one of Africa’s most influential cultural figures.
‘This Is Where I’m Meant to Be’
In her interview with British Vogue, Tems explained that reaching international success has not changed the way she views herself.
She said she has always believed she belonged in the spaces she now occupies and never felt the need to chase acceptance from others. Instead of allowing fame to define her, she remains committed to making music that reflects her own experiences and emotions.
Tems also revealed that she enjoys a relatively quiet lifestyle away from the spotlight. When she is not recording or touring, she spends time cooking, blending tea, listening to jazz and watching football, describing these simple routines as important ways of staying grounded despite her demanding career.
Working on New Music
Although Tems did not reveal an official release date for her next project, she confirmed that she is actively creating new music.
Rather than feeling pressure to produce chart-topping records, she explained that her creative process is guided by authenticity. She wants every song to represent where she is emotionally instead of following commercial expectations or industry trends.
That philosophy has become one of the defining characteristics of her career. From Free Mind to Love Me JeJe, Tems has consistently built songs around storytelling and emotion rather than short-lived viral moments.
Supporting the Next Generation
Beyond her music, Tems is increasingly focused on creating opportunities for young African women.
Through her initiative, The Leading Vibe, she has launched a mentorship programme designed to help women build careers across different areas of the music industry, including songwriting, production, management and business development. The programme, which began in Nigeria, is now expanding internationally with events planned outside Africa.
Tems believes African women should not only become successful performers but should also occupy leadership positions throughout the entertainment business. Her vision is to create an industry where more women own companies, manage artists and influence decision making across the sector.
Fashion Meets Music
The Vogue feature also highlighted Tems’ growing influence beyond music.
Known for her bold fashion choices, she has become a regular presence at international fashion weeks and major red carpet events. Working closely with stylist Dunsin Wright, Tems has developed a distinctive style that combines African identity with contemporary luxury fashion.
Her growing influence has attracted partnerships with some of the world’s leading fashion brands, reinforcing her status as both a music star and cultural icon.
One of Africa’s Biggest Success Stories
Tems’ achievements have become a source of pride across Africa.
She became the first Nigerian artist to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 through her appearance on Future’s hit Wait For U and remains one of the continent’s most streamed female artists worldwide. Her success has helped open doors for many younger African musicians seeking international recognition.
Music executives believe Tems represents a new generation of African artists who are proving that success no longer requires abandoning their identity. Instead, they are exporting African culture to the rest of the world while remaining rooted in their own stories.
Looking Ahead
As fans await her next musical release, Tems appears focused on much more than expanding her catalogue. She is building a legacy that combines artistic excellence, cultural influence and mentorship for future generations.
Her latest reflections suggest that despite achieving worldwide fame, her priorities remain unchanged. She wants to create meaningful music, inspire young creatives and continue proving that African artists belong at the centre of the global entertainment industry.
For Tems, the journey is no longer about breaking into international markets. It is about helping shape what the future of African music will look like.
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