Tems Highlights Gender Bias Against Women in Nigerian Music
Breaking into the music industry is tough, but for women in Nigeria, the hurdles are even higher. Grammy-winning artist Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, recently opened up about the lack of respect women face in the country’s music scene.
Reflecting on the early days of her career, Tems admitted that she often struggled to be taken seriously purely because of her gender. “People don’t really respect women in the [music] industry,” she revealed during a recent interview.
Determined to shift the narrative, the ‘Love Me Jeje’ singer launched The Leading Vibe Initiative, a platform designed to amplify women’s voices in music. The program aims to provide female artists with greater access to audiences, resources, and opportunities for success.
Tems also shared practical advice for aspiring female musicians: know your worth, define your brand, and establish clear boundaries. “What are the things that you wouldn’t do for fame and the things that you would do?” she asked, emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity while pursuing a career in music.
Her concerns echo those expressed by other prominent female Nigerian artists, including Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade, who have all highlighted the systemic challenges women face in the industry. Tems’ initiative and advocacy aim to create a more inclusive environment where female talent can thrive on its own terms.
