Lagos, Nigeria – In a historic moment for African music, Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems has emerged victorious at the 67th Grammy Awards, winning the prestigious Best African Music Performance category. The awards ceremony, held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2025, saw Tems triumph over a highly competitive lineup of fellow African artists, further solidifying her position as one of the most influential figures in contemporary global music.
Tems’ victory was met with widespread celebration, both in Nigeria and across the global music industry. Music lovers, fellow artists, and industry stakeholders have hailed her win as a major milestone for Afrobeats and African music as a whole. As the only female Nigerian artist in the category this year, her success is particularly significant, highlighting the growing influence of female musicians in a male-dominated industry. Fans took to social media to express their excitement, with hashtags and trends dedicated to Tems dominating platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
The Best African Music Performance category, which was introduced at the 66th Grammy Awards in 2024, is a recognition of the growing dominance of African sounds in the global music scene. Last year, the award was won by South African star Tyla for her hit single “Water,” a moment that paved the way for more African artists to receive global acclaim. This year’s nominations featured an impressive lineup, including Yemi Alade’s “Tomorrow,” Asake and Wizkid’s “MMS,” Chris Brown’s “Sensational” featuring Davido and Lojay, and Burna Boy’s “Higher.”
Tems’ journey to Grammy success has been nothing short of remarkable. Since breaking into the global music industry with her feature on Wizkid’s 2020 smash hit “Essence,” she has consistently pushed the boundaries of Afrobeats, fusing it with R&B and alternative sounds to create a unique and captivating style. Her collaboration with Future and Drake on “Wait for U” in 2022 marked another major career milestone, as the song debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making her the first African female artist to achieve this feat.
Her debut studio album, Born in the Wild, released in June 2024, received critical acclaim for its fresh sound, deep lyricism, and seamless blend of African and Western influences. The album’s success propelled Tems further into the spotlight, making her one of the most sought-after African artists in the world. Industry experts have credited her ability to connect with global audiences while maintaining her distinct African identity as a key factor in her success.
Beyond music, Tems has also become a symbol of artistic excellence and resilience. Her rise to fame has been marked by perseverance, overcoming industry challenges, and staying true to her creative vision. Her Grammy win is not just a personal triumph but an inspiration to countless emerging artists across Africa who aspire to make their mark on the international stage.
In the aftermath of her win, Tems expressed gratitude to her fans, team, and fellow artists who have supported her journey. Speaking backstage after receiving the award, she acknowledged the impact of African music on the global stage and emphasized the need for continued support and recognition of African talent. She dedicated the award to African women in music, encouraging them to break barriers and reach for global success.
As African artists continue to make waves internationally, Tems’ Grammy win serves as a powerful reminder of the continent’s growing influence in the entertainment industry. With Afrobeats, Amapiano, and other African genres gaining massive traction, industry analysts predict even greater recognition for African musicians in the years to come.
Tems’ victory is not just about an award; it represents a shift in the global music landscape. African artists are no longer just participants in the global industry but are now shaping its direction. With platforms like the Grammys acknowledging and celebrating African talent, the future of the continent’s music industry looks brighter than ever.
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