Tems, the Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, addresses the challenges women face in the Afropop industry, emphasizing the need for respect and opportunities for female artists. Through her new initiative, The Leading Vibe Initiative, she aims to empower young women in music, while also reflecting on her journey of authenticity amidst adversities.
Tems Speaks Out on Gender Inequality in the Music Industry
Tems Speaks Out on Gender Inequality in the Music Industry
The Nigerian Afropop sensation advocates for women's empowerment and gender equality in the music scene.
Article Text:
Nigerian Afropop sensation Tems has opened up about the persistent gender inequality in the music industry, emphasizing that "women are not respected" and often face significant barriers to success. Speaking in an interview with the BBC, the two-time Grammy award winner recalls the uphill battle she faced early in her career to be taken seriously in a male-dominated field.
Reflecting on her experiences, Tems noted, "I realized that there's always a cost. There's always a price that you pay. And a lot of those prices I wasn't willing to pay." The Afropop genre, despite its growing global recognition over the last decade, remains heavily skewed towards male artists, with prominent figures including Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid often overshadowing their female counterparts. However, artists such as Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade have similarly vocalized the challenges they encounter due to their gender.
Earlier this year, Tems responded to derogatory remarks about her body that circulated online after a performance clip was shared on social media. In a powerful statement on X, she addressed body shaming, asserting, "It's just a body, I will add and lose weight. The more you don't like my body, the better for me actually." She's driven to change the perception of women in music through her new venture, The Leading Vibe Initiative, which aims to create opportunities for young female talents across Africa's music landscape.
The initiative was launched in Lagos, Tems' hometown, where aspiring vocalists, songwriters, and producers gathered for a series of workshops and masterclasses focused on career development and networking opportunities. When asked what guidance she would offer young women looking to break into the industry, Tems emphasized the importance of self-awareness and clearly defined boundaries in the pursuit of fame.
With popular hits such as "Love Me Jeje" and "Free Mind," Tems has come a long way since her debut EP, collaborating with international stars like Beyoncé and Rihanna. She now boasts over 17 million monthly listeners on Spotify and is poised to perform alongside British band Coldplay during their upcoming sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium.
Beyond music, Tems has ventured into sports as a co-owner of US football club San Diego FC, through a partnership with Pave Investments, a West African private investment firm involved in various sports funding initiatives. "I never imagined myself owning or being in an ownership of any football team," she revealed, attributing her entry into football to her brother.
Tems’ multifaceted identity transcends that of a mere singer; she defines herself as a bold innovator willing to chart her own path. Her journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and audacity, and she encourages others to embrace their unique voices despite societal pressures. "Even when people tell you to change your sound, change your style, you look at them and you say: 'No'." Tems hopes her journey inspires others to be courageous and redefine what is possible in their own lives.
Nigerian Afropop sensation Tems has opened up about the persistent gender inequality in the music industry, emphasizing that "women are not respected" and often face significant barriers to success. Speaking in an interview with the BBC, the two-time Grammy award winner recalls the uphill battle she faced early in her career to be taken seriously in a male-dominated field.
Reflecting on her experiences, Tems noted, "I realized that there's always a cost. There's always a price that you pay. And a lot of those prices I wasn't willing to pay." The Afropop genre, despite its growing global recognition over the last decade, remains heavily skewed towards male artists, with prominent figures including Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid often overshadowing their female counterparts. However, artists such as Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade have similarly vocalized the challenges they encounter due to their gender.
Earlier this year, Tems responded to derogatory remarks about her body that circulated online after a performance clip was shared on social media. In a powerful statement on X, she addressed body shaming, asserting, "It's just a body, I will add and lose weight. The more you don't like my body, the better for me actually." She's driven to change the perception of women in music through her new venture, The Leading Vibe Initiative, which aims to create opportunities for young female talents across Africa's music landscape.
The initiative was launched in Lagos, Tems' hometown, where aspiring vocalists, songwriters, and producers gathered for a series of workshops and masterclasses focused on career development and networking opportunities. When asked what guidance she would offer young women looking to break into the industry, Tems emphasized the importance of self-awareness and clearly defined boundaries in the pursuit of fame.
With popular hits such as "Love Me Jeje" and "Free Mind," Tems has come a long way since her debut EP, collaborating with international stars like Beyoncé and Rihanna. She now boasts over 17 million monthly listeners on Spotify and is poised to perform alongside British band Coldplay during their upcoming sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium.
Beyond music, Tems has ventured into sports as a co-owner of US football club San Diego FC, through a partnership with Pave Investments, a West African private investment firm involved in various sports funding initiatives. "I never imagined myself owning or being in an ownership of any football team," she revealed, attributing her entry into football to her brother.
Tems’ multifaceted identity transcends that of a mere singer; she defines herself as a bold innovator willing to chart her own path. Her journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and audacity, and she encourages others to embrace their unique voices despite societal pressures. "Even when people tell you to change your sound, change your style, you look at them and you say: 'No'." Tems hopes her journey inspires others to be courageous and redefine what is possible in their own lives.
