Tems Discusses Gender Barriers and Launches Initiative to Support Women in Afropop Music Industry

Nigerian Afropop star and two-time Grammy winner Tems has spoken out about the lack of respect for women in the male-dominated music industry. She revealed early struggles to be taken seriously, noting that success often comes at a cost she was unwilling to pay. Despite the global rise of Afropop, the field remains dominated by male artists like Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid, while female artists face gender-based barriers. Tems responded to online criticism about her body by stressing self-acceptance and refusing to conform to societal pressures. She aims to empower young women through her project, The Leading Vibe Initiative, which offers workshops and networking opportunities to nurture female talent across Africa’s music sectors. Tems emphasizes the importance of defining one’s personal brand and boundaries in the industry and encourages passion for music over fame. With collaborations including Beyoncé and Rihanna, and over 17 million monthly Spotify listeners, Tems has risen to international prominence. She also recently became part-owner of US football club San Diego FC, highlighting her diverse interests beyond music. Tems attributes her success to authenticity and audacity, resisting pressures to change her artistic style to secure contracts. Her efforts advocate for changing perceptions of women in music and paving the way for future generations.