Grammy-winning Nigerian singer and songwriter, Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has opened up about the persistent gender bias faced by women in the Nigerian music industry. Speaking in a recent interview with the BBC, the Love Me Jeje crooner revealed that her early years in the industry were marked by challenges in being taken seriously simply because she was a woman.
“People don’t really respect women in the [music] industry,” Tems stated candidly during the interview. She explained that her gender often overshadowed her talent in the eyes of many industry stakeholders, forcing her to work twice as hard to prove her worth.
Tems, who has risen to international acclaim with multiple chart-topping hits and prestigious awards, noted that her journey has been a battle against entrenched stereotypes. She expressed her determination to change the narrative, not just for herself but for the next generation of female artists.
Launching The Leading Vibe Initiative
As part of her mission to transform the music landscape for women, Tems has launched The Leading Vibe Initiative, a platform designed to help female musicians gain better access to opportunities, wider audiences, and sustainable careers. According to her, the initiative seeks to break down the barriers that have long hindered women’s progress in the industry.
“My goal is to change the way women see themselves in music,” Tems explained. “Through The Leading Vibe Initiative, I want to provide women with more platforms to express themselves, build their brands, and achieve success without feeling pressured to compromise their values.”
Tems emphasised that the project will focus on mentorship, networking, and resource-sharing for aspiring female artists, equipping them with the tools they need to navigate the music business confidently and independently.
Advice for Aspiring Female Artists
Addressing young women who dream of a career in music, Tems urged them to start by defining their personal goals, brand identity, and non-negotiable boundaries.
“What are the things that you wouldn’t do for fame, and the things that you would do?” she asked, stressing the importance of self-awareness in an industry where external pressures can easily sway an artist’s choices. She added that having a clear sense of direction is crucial for staying authentic and resilient amid challenges.
Tems also advised women to seek supportive networks and to learn the business side of music, from copyright laws to brand partnerships. According to her, understanding these aspects can prevent exploitation and give women greater control over their careers.
A Shared Struggle Among Female Artists
Tems’ remarks echo the sentiments of other prominent female Nigerian artists, including Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade, who have also publicly discussed the hurdles they face because of their gender. From unequal pay and underrepresentation at major events to the expectation of conforming to sexualised images, the challenges are deeply ingrained.
Tiwa Savage, often referred to as the “Queen of Afrobeats,” has previously revealed that early in her career, she was advised to “tone down” her ambitions because the industry was not ready to see a woman at the forefront. Yemi Alade, another internationally recognised Afropop star, has similarly spoken about being underestimated and sidelined despite her success.
These recurring experiences highlight the broader structural issues within Nigeria’s music ecosystem—issues that Tems hopes her initiative will begin to address.
Breaking International Barriers
Despite these challenges, Tems’ career trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. She gained global recognition after featuring on Wizkid’s hit song Essence, which became an international sensation and earned her a Grammy nomination. She later went on to win a Grammy Award for her contribution to Wait For U, a collaboration with American rapper Future and Canadian superstar Drake.
Tems has also worked with global icons such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Drake, further solidifying her status as one of Africa’s most influential music exports. Her ability to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries makes her a powerful voice for change within the industry.
Changing the Narrative
For Tems, representation matters. She believes that seeing more women occupy leadership positions in music—whether as performers, producers, or executives—can inspire young girls to pursue their dreams without fear.
“We need to normalise women being in control of their art and their careers,” she said. “When young girls see other women making decisions, leading projects, and succeeding on their own terms, it changes what they believe is possible.”
Tems also stressed the importance of media representation, calling on journalists, bloggers, and broadcasters to highlight women’s achievements and talent rather than focusing solely on their appearances or personal lives.
Looking Ahead
With The Leading Vibe Initiative set to expand in the coming months, Tems is optimistic that real change can be achieved if the industry collectively embraces diversity and equality. She envisions a future where women in Nigerian music are celebrated not just for their beauty but for their artistry, innovation, and leadership.
“I know we have a long way to go,” she admitted, “but every step we take brings us closer to an industry where respect is earned based on talent and hard work—not gender.”
By leveraging her influence and global platform, Tems is not only amplifying conversations around gender equality but also actively creating avenues for transformation. Her journey serves as both an inspiration and a call to action for artists, fans, and industry leaders alike.
As the Nigerian music scene continues to captivate audiences worldwide, voices like Tems’ remind us that the industry’s growth must be matched by inclusivity and fairness. Only then can it truly reflect the diverse talents that power its success.
