Afropop star Tems has made headlines by calling out the gender inequalities in the music industry. The Grammy-winning artist, from Nigeria, expressed her frustrations in an interview with the BBC, stating that "people don't really respect women" in the field. She reflects on her early career, noting the challenges she faced in being taken seriously and the sacrifices she wasn’t ready to make for recognition.
Despite the Afropop genre's growing popularity, it remains heavily male-oriented, with leading figures like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido dominating the scene. Women artists, including Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade, have similarly pointed out the barriers they encounter. In recent months, Tems has also spoken out against body shaming following online criticism of her appearance after a live performance.
In response to these issues, Tems launched The Leading Vibe Initiative to shift the narrative for women in music. The initiative aims to provide support and opportunities to young female artists in Africa. Tems kicked off this project in her hometown of Lagos, hosting workshops and discussions for aspiring vocalists, songwriters, and producers.
Encouraging the next generation, Tems advised young women in the industry to define their personal brand and know their boundaries. She emphasized that sticking to one’s principles is vital, saying that her love for music would persist even if she weren't famous.
Today, as she collaborates with major artists ranging from Beyoncé to Rihanna and prepares to support Coldplay at Wembley Stadium, Tems embodies authenticity and resilience. Beyond music, her recent venture into sports as a part-owner of San Diego FC demonstrates her belief in pushing boundaries and exploring diverse passions. "I don’t see myself as just a singer... I'm much more than that," she stated.
