On February 2nd, at the 67th Grammy Awards, Tems solidified her place in music history by winning Best African Music Performance for her hit single “Love Me Jeje. This milestone makes her the most awarded Nigerian-based artist in Grammy history, following her first win at the 65th Grammys for Best Melodic Rap Performance on Future’s “Wait For You.”
Tems Breaks Multiple Records for Nigeria
With this latest victory, Tems (Temilade Openiyi) has:
✅ Became the first Nigerian artist to win Best African Music Performance
✅ Became the first Nigerian female artist to win the category
✅ Became the most-awarded Nigerian-based artist in Grammy history
✅ Became the first Nigerian-based female artist to win two Grammys
Her meteoric rise since 2019 has been nothing short of legendary, boasting accolades such as:
🏆 2 Grammy Awards
🏆 4 NAACP Image Awards
🏆 4 BET Awards
🏆 5 Headies Awards
🏆 2 American Music Awards
🏆 2 Soul Train Music Awards
🏆 1 Billboard Women in Music Breakthrough Award
🏆 1 BET Hip-Hop Award
🏆 1 iHeartRadio Music Award
🏆 1 Oscar nomination
These accomplishments—achieved in just six years—are feats that many artists spend decades chasing. Tems’ impact proves that true musical greatness is not defined by longevity alone, but by influence and artistry.
What Does Tems’ Grammy Win Mean for Nigerian Music?
Tems’ global breakthrough came with her unforgettable vocals on Wizkid’s “Essence,” a track hailed as one of the greatest Afrobeats songs of all time. However, while “Essence” introduced her to the world, her recent Grammy win cements her as a powerhouse beyond collaborations.
For years, Nigeria’s music scene has often overlooked achievements that stem from partnerships, dismissing them as mere “gum body” (riding on others’ success). However, global music thrives on collaboration, and Tems’ journey proves that strategic partnerships can amplify talent without overshadowing individuality.
A Turning Point for Female Artists in Nigeria
Tems’ success also challenges the male-dominated Nigerian music industry. Conversations around the “Big 3” or “Big 4” have historically focused on male artists, but her achievements signal a new era where female artists receive the recognition they deserve.
Her Grammy win is not just a personal victory—it’s a shift in the industry, proving that women in Nigerian music are just as capable of global dominance.
Tems is Redefining What it Means to Be a Nigerian Artist
Beyond awards, Tems has become a symbol of global recognition for Afrobeats and African music. Her journey serves as inspiration for emerging Nigerian artists—especially women—who now see a future where their talent can take them to the biggest stages worldwide.
Tems has shown that geography and gender are no barriers to success. She isn’t just making music; she’s making history.