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Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, is a world-renowned Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer who has become one of the most influential voices in modern African music. Known for her incredible versatility, she had her breakthrough as a feature on Wizkid’s Essence and has never looked back ever since.
QUICK FACTS
| Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Temilade Openiyi |
| Stage Name | Tems |
| Date of Birth | June 11, 1995 |
| Age (2025) | 30 years old |
| Place of Birth / Origin | Lagos, Nigeria |
| Ethnic / Religious Background | Yoruba; Christian |
| Education | Dowen College; Economics degree, Monash South Africa |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer |
| Years Active | 2018–present |
| Notable Songs | Essence, Try Me, Mr Rebel, Wait For U, Free Mind |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $3 million–$5 million |
| Awards | Multiple Grammy Awards, Billboard Women in Music, BET Awards |
| Relationship Status | Private / Single |
EARLY LIFE AND FAMILY
Tems was born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria, to a Nigerian mother and a British-Nigerian father. Her family moved briefly to the United Kingdom when she was little. Tems returned to Nigeria with her mother after her parents divorced. She grew up in Lagos, living in Ilupeju, Lekki, and Ajah, where her early life was shaped by a deep exposure to music and culture.
Tems attended Dowen College in Lekki for her secondary education. After graduation, she pursued a degree in Economics at Monash South Africa University. During her school years, her teacher noticed her vocal talents and encouraged her to develop them further.
CAREER AND RISE TO FAME
Tems began her music career in 2018 after leaving a digital marketing job. She released her debut single, Mr Rebel, in July 2018, followed by Try Me in 2019, which brought her to the Nigerian spotlight.
Her global breakthrough came in 2020 when she was featured on Wizkid’s Essence, a track that reached the top 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100 after a remix with Justin Bieber. She was also featured on Drake and Future’s hit song Wait For U, which debuted at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making her the first African female artist to achieve that feat.
In 2024, Tems released her critically acclaimed debut album Born in the Wild, which was supported by a world tour. She became the first African artist to win multiple Grammy Awards.
PERSONAL LIFE AND LEGACY
Tems is known for keeping a very low profile. Her journey from Lagos to global stages reflects dedication and commitment to her craft. Her unique sound has broken barriers internationally.
Her success story is truly remarkable. Few African artists have achieved what Tems has at her age. She has surpassed expectations and proved that having a unique voice pays off massively in the long run. Tems is a trailblazer and a source of inspiration for aspiring musicians across Africa and beyond.
