Grammy-winning Nigerian singer and songwriter Tems has shared the obstacles she faced when starting out in the music industry, explaining how hard it was to be recognized both as a producer and as a singer.
In an interview with CNN, Tems reflected on feeling unseen and unsupported during the early stages of her career.
“It was really hard to get people to take me seriously — not just as a producer, but as a singer, period. I didn’t feel safe, I didn’t feel seen, and I didn’t feel supported for a very long time,” she said.
She emphasized that staying authentic has always guided her work. “Authenticity is everything to me. That’s the one thing I cannot compromise on because that’s all I have — who I really am,” Tems added.
The singer also discussed her initiative, The Leading Vibe, which aims to create opportunities for women working behind the scenes in music. She plans to expand the project beyond Nigeria to support female talent in other countries.
“There are so many talented women who can be producers, managers, audio engineers — but they’re not even visible,” Tems said.
“So, I want to make them visible and create a space where we can redefine the perspective of women in music.
“We’re definitely taking this beyond Nigeria. Actually, we’re going to Kenya next. There are women everywhere who just need to feel seen. All they need is that platform, all they need is that chance, and I really believe it’s going to change the shape of the music industry for sure,” she added.
Tems, 30, has already marked major achievements in her career, winning two Grammy Awards. She first won in 2023 for Best Melodic Rap Performance for her feature on Future’s “Wait For U,” with Drake, and her second came in 2025 for Best African Music Performance with her track “Love Me JeJe.”
