Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems, has admitted that she loves to look beautiful and curvaceous, just like any other black woman.
In a video that has been shared online, the singer was asked what she loves about being a black woman.
Without hesitation, while beaming with excitement, the beauty made it clear that what makes her feel more African is her curvy figure.
“My favourite thing about being a Black woman? I love being curvy, I love that I have a little bit of my backside, you know what I’m saying.”
Tems
The Oscar-nominated singer also touched on her fashion sense and the cultural influences that shape her style. “I’m definitely into details. I’m definitely into the bling,” she said.
“I think Nigerians are very extravagant in everything, and I’m very into that. But I always put my own spin, and I’m not afraid to be who I am.”
Tems
Tems was among the prominent African stars who represented Nigeria at the 2025 Met Gala. She was joined by other Nigerian celebrities like Burna Boy and Ayra Starr. The singer and the other Nigerian stars embraced with their attire, and she talked about it.
“It feels really good [to represent Nigeria in the Met Gala] and I’m definitely into detail, I’m into bling. I think Nigerians are very extravagant in everything, and I’m very into that, but I always put on my spin, and I’m not afraid to be who I am.”
Tems
Tems also seized the opportunity to expand the dialogue surrounding African music.“African music encompasses far more than Afrobeats,”she stated.“Numerous sounds are awaiting international exploration, and Afrobeats has merely unlocked the potential for what lies ahead.”
The award-winning singer, who has been vocal about staying true to her sound, has often stated that she is not driven by trends or public pressure. Despite suggestions to pivot toward mainstream afrobeats, she has consistently chosen to stay authentic to her musical identity.
She continues to earn global acclaim not just for her music but also for her distinct style and unapologetic individuality.
Tems on Quitting Digital Marketing to Pursue Music
The Grammy-winning Nigerian singer shared the inspiring reason behind her bold decision to leave her digital marketing job and follow her passion for music.
In an interview with Billboard, she explained that quitting her job was a difficult but necessary step.
“It got to a point where I couldn’t take anymore. It was really dawning on me like, it’s now or never. I was just putting it off until I developed faith that God will see me through wherever I go.”
Tems
She revealed that she left her digital marketing position in January 2018 and waited about six to seven months before releasing her debut single, “Mr Rabel,” which gained initial attention.
“Spiritually, I was aware that digital marketing wasn’t my path, I need to leave this place right now. It felt really like life or death. It was like this can make or break your destiny, and you need to make a decision right now. I chose to quit, and it worked out.”
Tems
The singer rose to international fame after featuring on Wizkid’s 2020 global hit, “Essence,” which peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
In 2022, she became the first African artist to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart with Future’s song “Wait 4 U,” featuring her and Drake. The song won a Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2023.
This year, Tems earned another Grammy for her song “Love Me Jeje,” winning Best African Music Performance.
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