Tems, known for her hits such as "Free Mind," recalls starting her career feeling underestimated. "I realized that there's always a cost. There's always a price that you pay. A lot of those prices I wasn't willing to pay," she said, emphasizing the lack of options available for women. This sentiment resonates throughout the industry, where male stars like Burna Boy and Wizkid often dominate the spotlight, leaving female artists like Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade to voice their struggles against systemic barriers.
In response to online criticisms and body shaming, Tems took to X, declaring self-acceptance and setting a personal standard: "It's just a body... The more you don't like my body the better for me actually." She aims to inspire other women through her new initiative, The Leading Vibe Initiative, which seeks to empower young female musicians across Africa.
Launched in Lagos, the initiative focuses on skills development through workshops and masterclasses for aspiring vocalists, producers, and songwriters. Tems encourages women to define their boundaries and aspirations: "What are the things that you wouldn't do for fame and the things that you would do?"
A notable figure in the Afropop genre, Tems boasts collaborations with global stars and has accumulated a vast following on platforms like Spotify. As she prepares to support Coldplay during their UK tour, she remains committed to authenticity in her music: "Even when people tell you to change your sound, you look at them and you say: 'No'."
Beyond music, Tems has branched into sports as a part-owner of the US football club San Diego FC, showcasing her versatility and ambition. Her entry into ownership illustrates her belief that people can embrace new opportunities fearlessly. "I don't see myself as just a singer... I'm much more than that," she asserts, embodying the spirit of resilience and empowerment she aims to instill in others.
In response to online criticisms and body shaming, Tems took to X, declaring self-acceptance and setting a personal standard: "It's just a body... The more you don't like my body the better for me actually." She aims to inspire other women through her new initiative, The Leading Vibe Initiative, which seeks to empower young female musicians across Africa.
Launched in Lagos, the initiative focuses on skills development through workshops and masterclasses for aspiring vocalists, producers, and songwriters. Tems encourages women to define their boundaries and aspirations: "What are the things that you wouldn't do for fame and the things that you would do?"
A notable figure in the Afropop genre, Tems boasts collaborations with global stars and has accumulated a vast following on platforms like Spotify. As she prepares to support Coldplay during their UK tour, she remains committed to authenticity in her music: "Even when people tell you to change your sound, you look at them and you say: 'No'."
Beyond music, Tems has branched into sports as a part-owner of the US football club San Diego FC, showcasing her versatility and ambition. Her entry into ownership illustrates her belief that people can embrace new opportunities fearlessly. "I don't see myself as just a singer... I'm much more than that," she asserts, embodying the spirit of resilience and empowerment she aims to instill in others.
