Nigerian R&B sensation, Temilade Openiyi, better known as Tems, has achieved another milestone in her burgeoning career as she secures a place on TIME Magazine’s prestigious 100 Next list.
This list celebrates 100 young individuals worldwide who have made remarkable achievements and are shaping the future in various fields, including health, climate, business, sports, the arts, and more.
In the 2023 edition of the list, Tems shares the spotlight with American music producer Metro Booming and the breakout rap sensation, Ice Spice, among others.
Notable names like Kali Uchis, Hailey Bieber, and Peso Pluma also feature on this esteemed roster.
Grammy-award winning artist Mary J. Blige, who contributed to TIME Magazine’s coverage, shared her admiration for Tems, stating, “[She] is in a class all by herself because no other artist sounds like her.”
“That voice is so unique and original, so much so that it reminds me of the first time I heard Nina Simone. They both sing with emotion and conviction, making you feel every word they sing.”
Tems has experienced remarkable success since her breakthrough onto the international music scene, largely propelled by her stellar contribution to Wizkid’s mega-hit ‘Essence.’
She became the first Nigerian female singer to earn a Grammy award, winning the 2023 Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance for her contributions to Future’s ‘Wait For U.’
Furthermore, she made history as the first Nigerian artist to debut at the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
Tems now joins the ranks of fellow popstars like Davido, who made the list in 2021.
