Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has an inspiring story of rising from very humble beginnings to achieving international recognition, including winning a Grammy Award.
When Tems first crossed paths with her future manager, she was facing significant financial challenges. At that time, she reportedly had just ₦200, roughly equivalent to KSh 16, in her bank account. Despite this, she demonstrated a unique presence and talent that immediately set her apart in the Nigerian music scene.
Her manager recalls how, during the early days, Tems would quietly sit in while he and his cousin recorded a podcast. Even though she had no steady income and was struggling financially, she displayed incredible generosity, often sharing food with them despite having very little herself. This generosity and kindness left a strong impression, highlighting the character behind the artist.
Tems was not only talented but also remarkably determined. After some time, she took the initiative to approach her manager about working together professionally. Unlike many artists who hesitate when it comes to contracts and formal agreements, Tems was persistent and proactive, regularly following up to ensure that the paperwork was completed. This dedication was a clear indication of her seriousness and professionalism, something that her manager had rarely encountered.
Recognizing her potential, the manager proposed a deeper collaboration beyond the typical artist-manager relationship. Instead of just drafting a simple contract, he suggested they build a company together. Their relationship, which had grown from friendship over a few months, was now evolving into a strong professional partnership aimed at long-term success.
Tems’ story is one of resilience, generosity, and an unwavering belief in her own potential. Starting with almost nothing, she has climbed her way to the top of the music industry, earning international acclaim and becoming a symbol of hope and determination for many aspiring artists. Her journey underscores the power of talent, hard work, and the right support system in transforming dreams into reality.
