Tems Reflects on Journey from 9-5 Job to International Music Stardom
Nigerian singer and Grammy-winning artist Tems has opened up about her remarkable journey from a regular 9-5 job to becoming one of Africa’s most celebrated music stars. In a recent fan Q&A, the singer reflected on her career, describing her success as “beyond my dreams” and expressing gratitude for the opportunities that have come her way. She also shared her excitement for “whatever the Lord has in store” in the next chapter of her career.
Tems began her professional journey in 2018, leaving a stable digital marketing position to pursue her passion for music. Her determination and talent quickly paid off when she featured on Wizkid’s global hit Essence in 2020, a track that propelled her into international recognition. The song’s worldwide acclaim positioned her as a leading figure in the Afrobeats movement and opened doors for collaborations with other global artists.
Her meteoric rise reached a historic milestone in 2023 when she became the first female Afrobeats artist to win a Grammy Award. Demonstrating consistent excellence, Tems secured a second Grammy in 2025 for Best African Music Performance. Beyond music, her influence has extended to the film industry, earning her nominations for both Oscars and Golden Globes, further cementing her status as a global cultural icon.
Despite her monumental success, fans frequently ask how she remains grounded. Tems credits her achievements to faith and divine guidance, emphasizing that her journey has always been driven by passion and purpose rather than fame or accolades. She describes her story as a testament to perseverance, belief in oneself, and trust in the process.
Tems’ career trajectory serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians across Africa and beyond. Her decision to leave a conventional office job to pursue her dreams demonstrates the value of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and embracing uncertainty to achieve extraordinary results. Her journey highlights dedication, patience, and the importance of staying true to one’s roots, even when navigating international fame.
Looking ahead, Tems expressed excitement for new projects and collaborations, indicating that she is eager to explore new musical directions while staying faithful to her unique style. Fans can anticipate innovative releases that continue to push the boundaries of Afrobeats and showcase African music on a global stage.
Her story underscores more than awards and recognition—it is about ambition, resilience, and inspiring the next generation of artists. Tems has shown that combining talent, faith, and hard work can transform dreams into reality, and her journey continues to motivate countless young creatives to pursue their passions fearlessly.
As Tems continues to achieve international milestones, she remains a symbol of African talent and artistry, proving that with dedication, belief, and humility, local talent can thrive on the world stage.
