Tems: The Rising Star of R&B Makes Her Mark
Temilade Openiyi, better known as Tems, has been on a remarkable journey, transitioning from a rising star to a global sensation in the music industry. Her debut album, “Born in the Wild,” set to release on June 7, marks a significant milestone in her career. The Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer has already collaborated with industry giants like Beyoncé, Drake, and Rihanna, earning a Grammy and even an Oscar nomination along the way.
Tems’s rise to fame began with her feature on Wizkid’s hit single “Essence,” which became a global anthem. She then achieved further success with “Wait for U,” a collaboration with Future and Drake that debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Her contribution to Beyoncé’s “Move” on the album “Renaissance” solidified her status as one of the most in-demand artists.
In an interview at a Manhattan tea parlor, Tems reflected on her journey. She recalled an earthquake in New York that shook her hotel room, a metaphor for the upheavals and unexpected turns in her life. Tems, a devout Christian, expressed her belief in divine guidance, emphasizing that while one can control their actions, life’s events remain unpredictable.
Tems’s musical journey began in Lagos, where she grew up listening to 1990s R&B icons like Destiny’s Child, Mariah Carey, and Celine Dion. Although she initially pursued economics in college, her passion for music led her to teach herself production through YouTube videos. Her breakout single, “Try Me,” released in 2019, quickly became an anthem in Nigeria and attracted widespread attention.
Her music is characterized by its emotional depth and thematic focus on resilience and struggle. Tems’s creative process involves freestyling melodies and lyrics inspired by her feelings, with lyrics often coming last. This organic approach has resulted in hits like “Love Me Jeje,” which emerged from a spontaneous freestyle session with friends.
Despite her meteoric rise, Tems has faced challenges, including a serious illness that delayed the release of her debut album. Her recovery and subsequent return to music have fueled her determination to embrace life as a warrior, never giving up despite obstacles.
Tems’s meticulous approach to music creation involves long, solitary studio sessions where she fine-tunes her work until it matches her vision. Her goal is to create music that stands the test of time, much like her inspirations Lauryn Hill and Sade, known for their artistic integrity and timeless appeal.
As Tems prepares for her headlining
world tour and the release of “Born in the Wild,” she remains grounded in her core values. Success, for her, is not just about chart-topping hits but about staying true to herself and her artistic vision. She aims to achieve a balance between willfulness and submission, control and freedom, tension and release in her music.
Tems’s journey from Lagos to the global stage is a testament to her talent, resilience, and faith. As she navigates the challenges and triumphs of her career, she continues to inspire fans worldwide with her authenticity and commitment to her craft. Her debut album promises to be a reflection of her experiences and growth, capturing the essence of who she is as an artist and individual.
