In a recent interview with BigBoy TV, Nigerian songstress Tems shared an inspiring milestone in her journey to global fame. Known for her soulful sound and distinctive voice, Tems has steadily made a name for herself on the international stage. But even she couldn’t have predicted the surreal experience that would follow the success of “Essence”—a wave of recognition that included personal messages from music icons Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Drake, all within three days.
The 29-year-old artist recounted that Beyoncé’s team was the first to reach out in 2020, marking a pivotal moment for Tems as she began to realize the impact her work was having beyond Nigeria. Shortly after, direct messages came from Drake and Rihanna—artists who have not only shaped music but also influenced global culture. Reflecting on the magnitude of these interactions, Tems said, “I never imagined becoming this big. We did ‘Essence,’ and I started getting messages. In 2020, Beyoncé’s team reached out, and I was like, God, what’s going on?”
The recognition from such high-profile names not only validated her hard work but also reinforced her belief in her craft. She explained that it felt surreal, almost like a dream, adding, “It felt like it wasn’t real and I felt like I was dreaming or being pranked.”
Tems’ story is a powerful reminder of how far Nigerian and Afrobeats artists have come on the global scene, crossing borders and cultures. For Tems, the messages from Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Drake served as both a validation of her artistry and a symbol of the incredible potential within the Nigerian music industry. With her distinctive voice and undeniable talent, Tems continues to pave the way for other artists aspiring to bridge local sounds with global audiences.
