In a momentous celebration of music and artistry, Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems, has made headlines by winning her second Grammy Award at the 67th Grammy Awards held on February 2, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. This year, she clinched the award for Best African Music Performance with her heartfelt track “Love Me Jeje,” marking a significant milestone not only in her career but also in recognizing African music on the global stage.
Tems breaks records as the first Nigerian artist to win in this category, which debuted last year. The competition was fierce, featuring renowned artists such as Burna Boy, Yemi Alade, and Chris Brown. Her song “Love Me Jeje,” part of her debut album Born in the Wild, resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, showcasing her unique blend of Afrobeats and R&B influences.
In her emotional acceptance speech, Tems expressed profound gratitude: “Dear God, thank you so much for putting me on this stage and bringing me this team.” She dedicated her award to her mother, whose birthday coincidentally fell on the same day as the ceremony, emphasizing the personal significance of this achievement.
At just 29 years old, Tems has rapidly ascended to prominence within the music industry. This latest Grammy win adds to her impressive accolades; she previously won a Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2023 for her collaboration on “Wait For U” with Future and Drake. With this latest award, Tems now holds two Grammys, surpassing other Nigerian artists in terms of Grammy wins.
Tems’ Global Recognition
The 2025 Grammy Awards showcased the rise of African artists globally. Tems, nominated for Best African Music Performance, Best Global Music Album for Born in the Wild, and Best R&B Song for “Burning,” didn’t win in the latter categories but her multiple nods highlight her growing international acclaim.
Tems’ win is a testament to the evolving landscape of music recognition at prestigious events like the Grammys. The introduction of categories specifically celebrating African music reflects a broader acknowledgment of its global impact. As Tems continues to break barriers and set records, she stands as an inspiring figure for aspiring artists across Africa and beyond.
Tems’ remarkable achievement at the 67th Grammy Awards not only cements her status as a leading figure in contemporary music but also serves as a beacon of hope for many artists from diverse backgrounds striving for recognition in an increasingly competitive industry. As she continues to push creative boundaries, her journey will undoubtedly inspire future generations of musicians worldwide.
Credits also go to her dedicated team, whose contributions have been instrumental in her success as an artist. Additionally, Tems’ award-winning song “Love Me Jeje” is a sample of the evergreen classic by Seyi Sodimu, which faced rejection from major American record labels for over 20 years before finding new life through Tems’ interpretation.
