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Tems
Tems Biography: Rise, Music Career, Awards, Net Worth & Life Story of Temilade Openiyi
When Nigerian singer and songwriter Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, teamed up with Wizkid on the global smash hit “Essence” in October 2020, the world instantly discovered the singer whose mesmerizing vocal tone and alternative sound stood far apart from the fast-paced Afrobeats landscape. Tems’ calm yet powerful alto voice, her raw emotive delivery, and the uniqueness of her brand didn’t just complement Wizkid—she elevated the entire genre.
Recognized for her genre-blending approach to music, Tems entered the Nigerian music industry with her breakout single “Mr. Rebel” in 2018. Since then, she has cultivated a loyal fanbase known as “Rebel Gang”, built a distinct identity in global music, and achieved milestones that many Nigerian female artists had never reached before.
In this detailed biography, we dive into Tems’ early life, music career, rise to global fame, awards, controversies, net worth, personal life, and partnerships—a complete profile of the singer shaping a new wave of African music.
Tems Biography and Early Life
Temilade Openiyi was born on 11 June 1995 in Lagos, Nigeria. She grew up in a multicultural environment with a British-Nigerian father and a Nigerian mother. After spending a short part of her childhood in the UK, her parents divorced, prompting Tems to return to Nigeria at age five with her mother and siblings.
She attended Dowen College, Lagos, where her love for music slowly expanded. Even though she lived a somewhat quiet childhood, Tems always gravitated toward creative expression. After secondary school, she moved to South Africa and earned her Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Monash University.
Tems Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Temilade Openiyi |
| Stage Name | Tems |
| Date of Birth | 11 June 1995 |
| Age | 29 years |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Religion | Christian |
| Genres | RnB, Alternative, Afrobeats |
| State of Origin | Oyo State |
| Tribe | Yoruba |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| @temsbaby | |
| Height | 5’7’’ |
| Record Labels | Reset Industries, Human Music Records, RCA Records |
| Qualification | B.A. in Economics |
Tems’ Early Interest in Music
Tems often describes herself as an introverted child who found solace in writing poems and creating melodies. At 11, she began writing her own songs, using music as an outlet for her emotions. She once said in an interview:
“I wrote poems a lot—about everything, even breakfast. Then it became songs. I didn’t have many friends, so music became my friend.”
Musical Influences
Tems’ style is shaped by artists like:
- Lauryn Hill
- Kate Nash
- Lil’ Kim
- Paramore
- OutKast
- Green Day
Her alternative influences shine through her vocal delivery—soft yet powerful, emotional yet controlled.
With the help of a supportive music teacher, Tems learned to play the piano, refined her voice, and slowly grew confident in her unique sound. Though she once felt her voice was “too heavy,” she embraced it—and it later became her signature global magnet.
The Beginning of Tems’ Professional Music Career
Tems released her first EP “Time Swap EP” in 2013, though it didn’t gain mainstream attention. But her determination didn’t waver. The turning point came in 2018 when she independently released “Mr. Rebel.”
Breakthrough With “Mr. Rebel”
The song gained over 200,000 views shortly after release, introducing Nigeria to a fresh, alternative female sound unlike anything in the mainstream industry. Her avant-garde style captured curiosity, and her fanbase adopted the name Rebel Gang.
Illumination (2018) and Growing Presence
By 2018, Tems released another EP, “Illumination,” followed by her catchy single “Lookup Lookup.” Nigerian radio stations embraced her music, and industry insiders began paying attention.
“Try Me” — The Song That Shot Tems Into Stardom
In August 2019, Tems dropped “Try Me”, the viral single that became her breakout anthem. The song resonated with young Nigerians seeking individuality and emotional freedom. It has now surpassed 10 million views on YouTube.
For Broken Ears EP & International Recognition
In 2020, Tems released her debut globally recognized EP For Broken Ears, which she produced partly herself. The standout single “Damages” topped the Nigerian Apple Music chart and brought her further acclaim as a fearless new voice in African music.
Collaborations With Global Artists
During the pandemic, Tems was featured on:
- “Know Your Worth (Remix)” by Disclosure ft. Davido & Tems
- Obama’s Summer Playlist 2020
These collaborations expanded her international audience significantly.
Tems and Wizkid: The Collaboration That Changed Everything
Though Tems was already rising, her collaboration with Wizkid on his 2020 hit “Essence” skyrocketed her to global superstardom.
Wizkid said he discovered her after hearing “Try Me” and immediately wanted to work with her.
Why “Essence” Became a Global Anthem
- Tems’ raw, soulful chorus elevated the track.
- The song became the first Nigerian track to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10.
- A remix with Justin Bieber pushed it further into global radio rotation.
- TIME Magazine and Rolling Stone listed it among the Best Songs of the Year.
Their Artistic Chemistry
Despite rumors, Tems clarified their relationship is purely platonic and sibling-like.
Even when Wizkid attempted to lift her during a performance at the O2 Arena—a moment that went viral—Tems responded gracefully, explaining it was unintended and harmless.
Their collaboration opened opportunities for Tems, including:
- Working with Drake on “Fountains”
- Meeting Rihanna at Savage X Fenty
- Gaining recognition in the U.S. and Europe
Tems’ Awards and Nominations
Tems’ rise has been decorated with numerous awards. Notably, she became the first Nigerian female artist to win a BET Award in 2022.
Major Awards Won
2019 – Headies Awards
- Best Vocal Performance (Female)
- Best Alternative Song
2020 – Net Honours
- Most Played Alternative Song (“Damages”)
- Best Female Artist (West Africa)
2021 – Billboard, Grammy & Soul Train Highlights
- Billboard Hot 100 entries for “Essence” and “Fountains”
- Soul Train Award for Best Collaboration
- NAACP Awards
- Billboard RnB Rookie of the Month
2022 – BET Awards
- Best International Act
- Best Collaboration (“Essence”)
2023
- Best Song Written (“Lift Me Up”)
- Best Original Song (“Lift Me Up”)
2024
- Afrobeats Artist of the Year
- Most Outstanding New Artist
2025
- Best R&B Song (“Burning”)
- Grammy for Best Global Music Album (Born in the Wild)
- Best African Music Performance (“Love Me JeJe”)
Tems’ Endorsement Deals
Tems’ global appeal has made her a top choice for brands.
Major Endorsements
- Tommy Hilfiger (2022)
- Reebok — “Life Is Not a Spectator Sport” campaign
- Coca-Cola x Universal Music Group partnership
- Burberry brand ambassadorship
These deals expanded her influence and cemented her status as a global cultural icon.
Tems Net Worth in 2025
Tems is now recognized as one of Nigeria’s richest female musicians.
Estimated Net Worth: $21 Million (2025)
Income Sources:
- Music streams (over $13.7 million monthly from Spotify alone)
- International tours and performances
- Endorsement deals
- Songwriting and collaborations
Controversies: Tems’ Arrest in Uganda
In December 2020, Tems and Omah Lay were arrested in Kampala for violating Uganda’s COVID-19 restrictions. They were detained after performing at The Big Brunch concert.
Tems revealed she shared a cell with over 50 women, many detained unjustly. According to her, the conditions were inhumane:
“No human being should be in that condition.”
The Nigerian government intervened, and both artists were eventually released. The incident, though stressful, heightened international sympathy and visibility for her.
Tems’ Legacy and Influence
Tems is more than a singer—she is a movement. She represents:
- Female independence
- Emotional authenticity
- A new era of Nigerian alternative sound
Her success creates a pathway for young African women dreaming of global recognition.
Conclusion
Tems’ journey is a story of resilience, artistic courage, and global impact. From writing poems as a shy child to becoming a Grammy-winning global sensation, Tems has proven that authenticity can break every boundary.
Her music continues to reshape African RnB and inspire millions across the world. Tems hasn’t just risen—she has defined a new standard for African female artists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Tems’ real name?
Her real name is Temilade Openiyi.
2. What song made Tems famous?
Her viral breakout single “Try Me” put her in the spotlight.
3. How did Tems and Wizkid meet?
Wizkid discovered Tems after hearing her song “Try Me” and invited her for the Essence collaboration.
4. What is Tems’ net worth in 2025?
Tems’ net worth is estimated at $21 million.
5. Is Tems signed to a major label?
Yes, she signed to RCA Records in 2021.