Tems Advocates for Gender Equality in Afropop Music Industry

Tems, the Grammy-winning Nigerian Afropop star, has brought attention to the lack of respect for women in the music industry. She emphasizes the struggles female artists face while launching her initiative, The Leading Vibe Initiative, aimed at empowering young women in Africa's music scene.

Nigerian Afropop sensation Tems has opened up about the pervasive gender discrimination faced by women in the music industry, asserting that "people don't really respect women." The acclaimed two-time Grammy winner shared her experiences during an interview and voiced her commitment to changing the narrative for future female artists.

Reflecting on her early career, Tems noted the challenges of gaining seriousness and respect in a male-dominated industry, where the leading figures are predominantly male, including Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid. She also highlighted the experiences of her female contemporaries, such as Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade, who have similarly faced obstacles due to their gender.

After being the target of negative comments about her appearance earlier this year, Tems took to social media to express her self-acceptance, stating, "It's just a body," emphasizing her unwillingness to conform to societal pressures. With her new platform, The Leading Vibe Initiative, launched in her hometown of Lagos, Tems aims to provide vital opportunities for female artists throughout Africa.

The initiative kicked off recently with a series of workshops and masterclasses designed to foster skills and connections among young vocalists, producers, and songwriters. Tems advised aspiring artists to remain true to themselves and set boundaries regarding their pursuit of fame.

Renowned for hits like "Love Me Jeje" and "Free Mind," Tems has garnered an impressive following, with over 17 million monthly listeners on Spotify, and has collaborated with global stars such as Beyoncé and Rihanna. Next month, she will be supporting British band Coldplay at Wembley Stadium, showcasing her rising star power.

Beyond her musical career, Tems has ventured into sports as a part-owner of the San Diego FC football team. Expressing her aspirations, she hopes to inspire others to pursue unique and bold endeavors. "I don't see myself as just a singer," she remarked, emphasizing her multifaceted identity and drive to redefine possibilities for women in both music and sports.