Temilade Openiyi, the Grammy award-winning Nigerian singer, popularly known as Tems, has opened up about the challenges she faced at the start of her career.
In a recent interview with CNN, Tems said it was difficult for people to take her seriously and that she did not feel supported for a long time.
The 30-year-old hitmaker emphasized that authenticity is her non-negotiable core principle.
She said, “Authenticity is everything to me. That’s the one thing I cannot compromise on because that’s all I have, who I really am.
“It was really hard to get people to take me seriously not just as a producer, but as a singer, period. I didn’t feel safe, and I didn’t feel seen, and I didn’t feel supported for a very long time.”
Speaking about her initiative, The Leading Vibe, Tems explained that she is using the platform to create the opportunities she once lacked.
According to her, the program is designed to support and elevate women in behind-the-scenes roles in the music industry.
She added, “There are so many talented women who can be producers, managers, audio engineers but they’re not even visible.
“So, I want to make them visible and create a space where we can redefine the perspective of women in music.
“We’re definitely taking this beyond Nigeria. Actually, we’re going to Kenya next. There are women everywhere who just need to feel seen. All they need is that platform, all they need is that chance, and I really believe it’s going to change the shape of the music industry for sure.”