Tems Advocates for Women in Music Amid Industry Challenges

Tems discusses the respect women lack in the Afropop industry while revealing her new initiative aimed at supporting young female musicians. The two-time Grammy winner emphasizes authenticity and barriers women face as she aims to create opportunities for the next generation.

Nigerian Afropop star Tems has made a powerful statement regarding the challenges women face in the music industry, asserting that "people don't really respect women" in this space. In an interview with the BBC, the two-time Grammy award winner shed light on her personal experiences, stating that early in her career, she struggled to gain the respect and recognition that her male counterparts enjoyed.

"There’s always a cost. There's always a price that you pay. A lot of those prices I wasn't willing to pay, and there weren't a lot of options," Tems shared, highlighting the oppressive environment that many female artists navigate. The Afropop genre, despite its global popularity, remains dominated by male artists like Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid, leaving women like Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade to confront significant barriers.

This year, Tems faced online criticism regarding her body image after a viral performance video, prompting her to assert her self-acceptance on social media. "It's just a body. I just didn't feel the need to prove or disprove anyone," she stated, revealing her determination to change perceptions around body positivity among women in music.

To drive her vision further, Tems has launched The Leading Vibe Initiative, a platform dedicated to providing opportunities for emerging female talent throughout Africa's music scene. "If I get to a place where I can do more, I will make this initiative for women like me and maybe make it easier for women to access platforms and success," she explained.

The initiative's inaugural event took place in Lagos, her hometown, where young vocalists, songwriters, and producers participated in workshops and discussions aimed at expanding their skill sets and networks. Tems encouraged young women looking to make their mark in the industry to clearly define their brand and boundaries, stressing the importance of passion over fame in the pursuit of music.

Beyond her musical achievements, including collaborations with icons like Beyoncé and Rihanna, and upcoming support for Coldplay at Wembley Stadium, Tems has ventured into sports as a part-owner of the US football club San Diego FC. "I never imagined being in ownership of a football team," she exclaimed, expressing her desire to empower others to pursue unconventional paths.

Tems attributes her success to being "authentic" and "audacious," standing firm against pressures to conform to commercial expectations. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists, reminding them that determination and individuality can pave the way for success, both in music and beyond.