Nigerian singer and songwriter Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has dedicated her historic Grammy win to her mother. The talented artist claimed the award for Best African Music Performance at the 67th Grammy Awards for her song Love Me Jeje, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Tems triumphed in a competitive category that featured some of Africa’s biggest music stars, including Yemi Alade, Asake & Wizkid, Davido & Lojay, and Burna Boy. Her victory further cements her reputation as one of Africa’s most influential and globally recognized artists.
Taking to the stage to accept the award, Tems delivered an emotional speech, expressing gratitude to God, her team, and, most importantly, her mother. Overcome with emotion, she acknowledged the immense sacrifices her mother made for her and her brother, dedicating the prestigious award to her as a heartfelt birthday gift.
“Wow, dear God. Thank you so much for putting me on this stage and bringing me this team,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “Tomorrow is my mum’s birthday, and this is her first Grammys. I just want to thank you, Ma, because she has really done a lot for me and my brother.”
She continued by expressing appreciation to those who have played vital roles in her journey, giving special mention to her team members, Muyiwa and Wale, as well as her stylist and other close supporters. “Happy birthday, Mum. And I want to thank my team—Muyiwa, Wale, my beautiful stylist, and lovely girls. I love you guys. Thank you so much. To God be the glory. Honestly, He has changed my life so much.”
Tems’ victory is a testament to her hard work, talent, and perseverance. Since breaking into the global music scene, she has consistently pushed boundaries, redefining the sound of African music on the international stage. This Grammy win marks yet another significant achievement in her growing list of accolades.
Her song Love Me Jeje resonated with fans worldwide, blending African rhythms with a soulful and contemporary touch. The track’s success further solidified her status as a leading voice in the Afrobeat and R&B genres, showcasing her unique ability to craft deeply emotional and sonically rich music.
Tems’ journey to the top has been nothing short of inspiring. Born and raised in Nigeria, she developed a passion for music at an early age, drawing inspiration from her mother, who nurtured her dreams. She first gained widespread attention with her breakout single Try Me in 2019, which quickly became an anthem for young Africans embracing their identities and struggles.
Her international breakthrough came when she featured on Wizkid’s Essence, a track that became a global sensation, earning her a Grammy nomination and widespread recognition. The song’s success paved the way for collaborations with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Drake and Future. Her feature on Future’s Wait For U earned her a Grammy Award in 2023, making her the first Nigerian female artist to win a Grammy.
This latest Grammy win for Love Me Jeje is particularly special, as it marks her first solo recognition at the prestigious awards. It highlights her growth as an artist and her ability to stand out in a highly competitive industry.
Tems’ impact extends beyond music; she has become a symbol of female empowerment in the African entertainment industry. Her success story inspires countless young women, proving that talent, perseverance, and authenticity can break barriers. She continues to champion African music on the global stage, using her platform to elevate the continent’s rich musical heritage.
The Grammy Awards ceremony was a moment of pride for Nigeria and the African music industry as a whole. With artists like Tems leading the charge, African music continues to gain prominence worldwide, proving that the genre’s influence is stronger than ever.
Tems’ mother, who played a crucial role in her upbringing, has often been a source of inspiration for her music. In past interviews, the singer has spoken about her mother’s resilience and unwavering support, which helped shape her into the artist she is today. Her decision to dedicate the Grammy award to her mother reflects not only deep gratitude but also the strong bond they share.
As the celebrations continue, fans and fellow artists have taken to social media to congratulate Tems on her well-deserved win. Messages of support have poured in from across the globe, with many praising her for raising the bar for African artists and inspiring the next generation.
Looking ahead, Tems shows no signs of slowing down. With her Grammy win solidifying her place among the world’s top musicians, fans eagerly anticipate what she has in store. Whether through new music, global collaborations, or groundbreaking performances, one thing remains certain—Tems is a force to be reckoned with, and her journey is only just beginning.
Her success story serves as a reminder that dreams are valid and that with hard work, dedication, and faith, anything is possible. From a young girl with big dreams in Nigeria to a Grammy-winning global star, Tems has proven that African music is here to stay, and its influence will only continue to grow.
