With her soulful voice and genre-blending style, Tems has quickly risen from underground favorite to global star. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Temilade Openiyi — known professionally as Tems — has carved out her own sound, weaving Afrobeat, R&B, and alté into deeply emotional songs that have earned her international acclaim.
Her 2020 breakthrough with “Try Me” caught the attention of music lovers across Africa, but it was her ethereal performance on “Essence” with Wizkid that catapulted her into worldwide recognition. The remix, featuring Justin Bieber, turned the track into a global summer anthem — and Tems became the first African female artist to debut on the Billboard Hot 100.
From co-writing with Beyoncé to working with Drake, Tems has proven she’s more than just a rising star — she’s a once-in-a-generation talent. Her 2021 EP If Orange Was a Place showcased her storytelling and vocal control, while her contribution to the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack with “No Woman No Cry” added a new layer of cultural depth to her artistry.
Tems’ debut studio album Born in the Wild (2024) earned critical praise for its emotional honesty and atmospheric sound. But how well do you really know Tems’ journey? Let’s put your knowledge to the test.
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Answer Key:
1. D) “Mr Rebel”
2. C) 2020
3. B) “Move”
4. B) “Free Mind”
5. C) Drake
6. B) Born in the Wild
7. B) “No Woman No Cry”
8. A) 5
9. B) “Wait For U”
10. B) “Free Mind”
How Did You Score?
8-10 Correct: You’re a true fan of Tems’ artistry. You’ve followed her growth from the underground to the global stage.
5-7 Correct: You know your stuff! A few more plays of her EPs and album and you’ll be a Tems expert.
1-4 Correct: Don’t worry — the journey’s just starting. Dive into her discography and enjoy every soulful second.
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