Nigerian Afropop sensation Tems addresses the gender disparities in the music industry, advocating for change through her initiative to support aspiring female artists.
Tems Challenges Gender Norms in Afropop Industry
Tems Challenges Gender Norms in Afropop Industry
The Grammy-winning artist fights for female representation and self-acceptance in a male-dominated music scene.
Nigerian Afropop sensation Tems recently shared her insights on gender issues in the music industry, declaring that "women are not respected." In a candid discussion with the BBC, the two-time Grammy Award winner reflected on her early career challenges in gaining recognition and respect. “There’s always a cost,” she stated, emphasizing the difficult choices female artists face in a predominantly male-dominated sphere.
The rise of Afropop globally has been meteoric over the last decade, yet the genre's landscape remains heavily skewed towards male artists. Tems pointed out the stature of male counterparts such as Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid, while notable female figures like Tiwa Savage have also voiced their struggles within the industry.
In response to negative comments she received online regarding her body, Tems defended herself on social media: "It's just a body, I will add and lose weight." She conveyed her desire to shift societal perceptions of women's roles in music through her latest venture, The Leading Vibe Initiative. The program focuses on providing young female musicians with opportunities to hone their skills and build networks across Africa’s vibrant music scene.
Kicking off in her hometown of Lagos, the initiative aims to empower young vocalists, songwriters, and producers through workshops and mentorship sessions. When asked about her advice for aspiring female artists, Tems emphasized the importance of understanding one's brand and setting personal boundaries in their pursuit of fame.
Having collaborated with artists such as Beyoncé and Rihanna, Tems's rise to fame is accompanied by a passion for authenticity. "Even if it meant not being signed, I was okay with that," she explained, highlighting her commitment to maintaining her artistic integrity.
Moreover, Tems’ aspirations extend beyond music; she is now a part-owner of US football team San Diego FC, brought into investment through collaboration with Pave Investments. "I don’t see myself as just a singer; I’m much more than that," she remarked, invoking her belief that individuals can reach beyond conventional categories.
With over 17 million listeners on Spotify and shows lined up with major acts like Coldplay, Tems continues to serve as a beacon of resilience and innovation in the global music scene.
