In just a few years, Nigerian singer Tems has transformed African music on the international stage, amassing an impressive 42 awards. From a Grammy win to an Oscar nomination and multiple BET and Soul Train accolades, her artistry has become a passport to global recognition. Each award underscores not only her talent but also her carefully charted ascent in an increasingly competitive industry.
Early Breakthroughs
Tems first gained attention with independent singles like “Mr Rebel” (2018) and “Try Me” (2019). Her breakout came in 2020 with the EP For Broken Ears, featuring tracks like “Damages” and “Free Mind” that captured international ears. The 2021 EP If Orange Was a Place showcased refined production and collaborations with artists such as Brent Faiyaz, signaling her readiness for global impact.
Strategic Collaborations and Global Hits
Collaborations have played a pivotal role in Tems’ rise. She featured on Wizkid’s Essence, the first Nigerian song to chart on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, later remixed with Justin Bieber. Partnerships with Drake on “Fountains” and Future on “Wait for U,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Hot 100, made her the first African artist to achieve that milestone. Her solo single “Me & U” (2023) further solidified her presence on both UK and U.S. charts.
Debut Album and Critical Acclaim
Tems’ debut album, Born in the Wild (2024), features 18 tracks and collaborations with J. Cole and Asake. Exploring themes of faith, introspection, and diverse sonic textures, singles like “Me & U,” “Love Me JeJe,” and “Burning” earned Grammy wins and nominations, cementing her as a leading global voice.
Influence Beyond Music
Tems’ impact goes beyond accolades. Nairobi ranks among the top five cities worldwide for her streams, with 67% of Kenyan listeners aged 18–24. Her influence shapes festival culture, fashion, and music discovery, highlighting her resonance with young, trendsetting audiences.
A Deliberate Rise
What sets Tems apart is her intentional approach: blending Afrobeats, R&B, and hip-hop through strategic releases and collaborations while maintaining a distinct artistic identity. Her awards are not merely trophies—they represent barriers broken, doors opened, and the growing global recognition of African artistry.
As she continues touring and releasing music internationally, Tems’ journey demonstrates that global influence is attainable through authenticity, creativity, and thoughtful strategy. Her story is now about more than a singular talent from Lagos—it’s about an artist reshaping boundaries and inspiring a new generation of global musicians.
