While countless new artists may snag hits in a given year, only a select few truly break through and leave an indelible mark on the global music scene and popular culture. Tems is undoubtedly one of those rare talents.
The Nigerian singer-songwriter has masterfully blended Afrobeats, soul, and hip-hop to become one of the foremost female figures in the global Afrobeats boom of the early 2020s.
Born Temilade Openiyi on June 11, 1995, Tems, as she is affectionately known, was bestowed with the breakthrough award at the illustrious Billboard Women in Music event on Thursday, March 6. Each year, Billboard proudly recognizes women who are not only making significant contributions to the music industry but also inspiring generations of women worldwide.
Tems’s rise to prominence was propelled by her collaboration with Wizkid on the chart-topping single “Essence,” which soared to an impressive number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, captivating audiences globally with its infectious rhythms and soulful lyrics. In addition to her collaboration with Wizkid, Tems has garnered acclaim for her collaborations with other international stars, including Drake, Future, Beyoncé, and Rihanna. She earned her first Grammy award for her contribution to Future’s hit single ‘Wait For U‘
With her highly anticipated debut studio album slated for release in 2024, Tems is poised to dominate the music scene in the coming year, captivating listeners with her distinctive sound and undeniable talent, while further solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the industry.
The 2024 Billboard Women in Music Awards celebrated some of the most talented and influential female artists from around the world, showcasing the diverse range of voices shaping the contemporary music landscape. Among the esteemed honorees were Colombian Superstar Karol G, who was honored with the coveted Woman of the Year award ,Kylie Minogue, the legendary pop icon from Australia; Charli XCX, the boundary-pushing English singer-songwriter; NewJeans, the rising star from South Korea; Luisa Sonza, the powerhouse vocalist from Brazil; Young Miko, the dynamic performer from Puerto Rico; Maren Morris, the country music sensation; Ice Spice, the trailblazing rapper who won the Hitmaker Award; and Victoria Monét, the multifaceted singer-songwriter from the United States of America.
The star-studded event, hosted by the incomparable Tracee Ellis Ross, unfolded amidst the glitz and glamour of the YouTube Theatre at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, California, providing an unforgettable evening celebrating the extraordinary talent and contributions of women in music.”