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Tems on Breaking Barriers: “Women Can Be in Any Space They Want”
Nigerian Superstar Opens Up About Challenges and Empowerment in Music and Beyond
Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Tems has candidly discussed the systemic challenges women face in the music industry while unveiling her ambitious plan to reshape the landscape for female creatives across Africa.
In an exclusive interview with BBC Africa, the “Free Mind” hitmaker revealed how she overcame industry skepticism to become one of Africa’s most influential musical exports. “It was difficult to find people to take me seriously, but it didn’t mean that I stopped. I just kept going,” the 30-year-old shared.
A Mission Bigger Than Music
For the singer born Temilade Openiyi, success transcends personal achievement. She’s launched ‘The Leading Vibe Initiative’—a groundbreaking platform designed to support, promote, and connect African female singers, songwriters, and producers.
“As a woman myself, I’m the best person to start something like this because that’s the aim of this,” explained the two-time Grammy winner, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi. Her vision extends beyond performers to include women in all music industry roles—producers, audio engineers, instrumentalists, and managers.
The initiative comes as response to the pressures female artists face to conform. “When people tell you to change your sound, change your style, you look at them and say no,” Tems asserted, recalling her early career struggles. “If it means me not being signed, I was okay not being signed; I went to a couple places that didn’t sign me, and I was okay with that.”
From Recording Booth to Boardroom
In a surprising career pivot, the “Essence” collaborator has expanded her influence beyond music into professional sports ownership. Tems recently became part-owner of a San Diego football club, entering a space where women remain dramatically underrepresented.
“It’s a space where women are underrepresented, and I wanted it to be known that women can be in any space if they want,” she explained about her foray into sports management. Like many Nigerians, she’s long been a football enthusiast, but never imagined herself in an ownership role.
This move exemplifies Tems’ broader philosophy about female empowerment. “I want to change the way people see women, and the way women see themselves,” she emphasized, whether in music studios or corporate boardrooms.
A Blueprint for the Next Generation
Tems’ journey offers a masterclass in perseverance. From being turned down by record labels to performing at the FIFA Club World Cup and winning international acclaim, her career trajectory demonstrates what’s possible when talent meets determination.
The artist’s multifaceted career—spanning music production, vocal performance, and now sports entrepreneurship—serves as living proof of her central message: women shouldn’t be confined by traditional expectations or industry gatekeepers.
As she continues breaking barriers, Tems remains focused on creating opportunities for others. “From the studio to the football field, women can break boundaries and thrive wherever they choose,” she concluded, offering both inspiration and a challenge to the next generation of female creatives and entrepreneurs.
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