Nigerian music sensation Tems has once again put African artistry on the global map, securing three nominations at the 2026 BET Awards, the highest among continental representatives.
The nominations, announced on May 19, underscore her rising influence in R&B, pop, and beyond, as the awards celebrate Black excellence across music, culture, and entertainment.
The 26th annual BET Awards, hosted by comedian and entertainer Druski, are scheduled for June 28 and will air live on BET and Paramount+. This year’s nominations highlight a competitive field, with Cardi B leading overall with six nods, followed closely by Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist with five each. Yet, in the African contingent, Tems stands tall.
Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, earned nods in Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, competing against heavyweights like SZA, Kehlani, Coco Jones, Ella Mai, Jill Scott, Mariah the Scientist, and Olivia Dean. This category recognizes her consistent delivery of soul-stirring vocals and genre-blending sounds that have captivated international audiences.
Her sophomore album and recent singles have solidified her as a force in contemporary R&B, building on past BET successes, including wins for “Essence” with Wizkid and international act honors in previous years.
She also received a BET Her Award nomination for her empowering track “First.” The BET Her category honors songs by women that motivate and uplift, aligning perfectly with Tems’ introspective and resilient artistry. “First” showcases her signature blend of vulnerability and strength, themes that resonate deeply with fans navigating personal growth and self-discovery.
Additionally, Tems scored a Viewers’ Choice nomination for her collaboration with British rapper Dave on “Raindance.” Released in October 2025 as part of Dave’s album The Boy Who Played the Harp, the track marked a significant crossover moment.
It earned Dave his first Billboard Hot 100 entry, debuting at No. 89, and highlighted Tems’ ability to elevate collaborations with her emotive delivery and melodic prowess. Fans can vote for this category, adding an interactive element to the anticipation.
Tems’ triple nomination leads a strong showing for African artists. South Africa’s Tyla follows with two nominations, including recognition for her hit “Chanel.”
Nigerian stars Wizkid and Asake earned a nod together in the Best Group category, while Burna Boy and Asake (individually) also secured single nominations, reflecting the global impact of Afrobeats and Afro-fusion sounds.
This achievement comes at a pivotal time for Tems. Having won a Grammy for Best African Music Performance in 2025 for “Love Me Jeje” and consistently breaking barriers, she represents the new wave of African musicians commanding respect on major platforms. Her journey from Lagos underground scenes to international stages embodies perseverance, as she has often spoken about overcoming industry challenges and staying true to her roots.
Industry observers note that Tems’ nominations not only celebrate her individual talent but also amplify African music’s growing footprint. Afrobeats and R&B-infused African sounds continue to dominate charts and influence global pop culture, with artists like Tems, Burna Boy, and Wizkid paving the way for wider recognition.
Public Reactions
Reactions poured in swiftly on social media following the announcement. Nigerian fans and music enthusiasts celebrated Tems as a trailblazer, with many highlighting her three nods as a proud moment for the nation. “Tems leading the heritage of Africa and Nigeria,” one X user posted, capturing the collective pride.
Industry insiders suggest her momentum makes her a strong contender, especially in categories celebrating female empowerment and fan-favorite tracks.
Tems’ success story serves as an inspiration for emerging artists across the continent. From her early experiments with music production to viral hits and major label deals, she has demonstrated that authenticity and hard work transcend borders.
As BET celebrates its 26th year, her nominations reinforce the awards’ role in bridging cultures and spotlighting voices that matter.
The full list of nominees spans various genres, with fierce competition in hip-hop, R&B, and international categories. For African music lovers, however, the spotlight on Tems, Tyla, Wizkid, Asake, and Burna Boy marks another milestone in the genre’s global ascent.
Fans are encouraged to vote via the BET website and app. With the show just over a month away, all eyes remain on Tems as she continues to soar, proving that African excellence is not just participating-it is leading.
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