Nigerian Afropop sensation Tems has articulated her concerns regarding the treatment of women in the music industry, emphasizing that they "are not respected." Speaking to the BBC, the Grammy-winning artist reflected on her personal experiences at the inception of her career, noting the challenges she faced in being recognized as a serious musician. "I realized that there's always a cost... and a lot of those prices I wasn't willing to pay," she stated.
Despite the global rise of Afropop and its increasing popularity, the genre remains dominated by male artists. The so-called "Big Three" of Afropop—Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid—are all male, while prominent female singers like Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade have confronted their own obstacles due to their gender.
Earlier this year, Tems responded to body-shaming comments she received after a performance video went viral. She took to social media, asserting, "It's just a body... the more you don't like my body the better for me."
In a bid to foster change and uplift women in music, Tems has launched The Leading Vibe Initiative, designed to support and provide opportunities for young female musicians across Africa. "I promised myself that if I get to a place where I can do more, I will make this initiative for women like me," she shared during the initiative's launch in Lagos, which featured workshops, masterclasses, and networking events.
When asked what advice she would impart to aspiring female artists, Tems stressed the importance of self-awareness and setting personal boundaries. "Have an idea of what you want for yourself... the things you wouldn't do for fame."
With a significant fanbase, Tems has collaborated with globally renowned artists like Beyoncé and Rihanna, and is set to support Coldplay during their sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium next month. Her tenacity and authenticity, she notes, have been key to her success. "Even when people tell you to change your sound... I was okay with that," she asserted.
Beyond music, Tems has expanded her ambitions into sports as a part-owner of US football team San Diego FC. She remarked, "I don't see myself as just a singer... I'm much more than that," signaling her desire to break barriers in various fields and inspire others to pursue versatile careers.
