Temilade Openiyi, or Tems, is a Nigerian singer-songwriter and record producer. She gained notoriety after appearing on Wizkid’s 2020 single “Essence,” which peaked at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart upon releasing a remix version featuring Justin Bieber.
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Tems’ mother only allowed her to listen to Christian music when Tems was a child. Later in her teenage years, she became interested in R&B and hip hop music.
She listened to Destiny’s Child, Beyoncé, Lil Wayne, and Aaliyah, and covered Alicia Keys’ 2004 single, “If I Ain’t Got You”, in a live performance. Growing up, she was also interested in artists such as Burna Boy, Lauryn Hill, Adele, Rihanna, Coldplay, Paramore, and Asa.
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Image Credit: Instagram
Tems Wins Best Gospel/Inspirational Award at 2024 BET Awards
Tems took home the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award at the 2024 BET Awards last night.
The singer and songwriter beat out Shirley Caesar (“Award All of the Glory”), Kirk Franklin (“All Things”), Halle Bailey (“Angel”), CeCe Winans (“Come Jesus Come”), Erica Campbell (“Do You Believe in Love?”), Maverick City Music, Naomi Raine & Chandler Moore (“God Problems”), and Kirk Franklin (“Try Love”) with her song “Me & U.”
The BET Awards Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award honors an urban contemporary gospel singer. The winner is chosen based on sales and the overall quality of content released within the eligible period.
Kirk Franklin currently owns the record for this category with six victories.
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