Grammy-winning Nigerian artist and songwriter Tems has earned a spot on TIME Magazine’s 2023 TIME 100 Next list.
She joins a select group of people “who have achieved peak influence in their fields.”
On this list, Tems features alongside American music producer Metro Booming and 2023 breakout rap sensation Ice Spice.
Other notable names on the list include Kali Uchis, Hailey Bieber, Peso Pluma, Tyler James Williams, Sarah Jakes Roberts, John Chweya, and Mercy Mutemi, among others.
Also featured on this list is Dr. Toyin Ajayi, the co-founder and CEO of Cityblock Health, a tech-driven healthcare provider committed to enhancing health outcomes for marginalised communities facing systemic challenges.
Tems has enjoyed remarkable success since breaking into the international scene after her brilliant contribution to Wizkid‘s mega-hit “Essence”.
Tems became the first Nigerian female singer to earn a Grammy award after she won the 2023 Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance for her contributions to Future’s “Wait For U” she also made her the first Nigerian artist to debut at the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
She has won three BET awards and also earned an Oscar nomination for her writing on Rihanna‘s “Lift Me UP”.
As part of Tems’ appearance on the list, American Grammy winner and Oscar nominee Mary J Blige penned a glowing profile in which she describes the Nigerian singer as unique and original.
“Tems is in a class all by herself because no other artist sounds like her. That voice is so unique and original, so much so that it reminds me of the first time I heard Nina Simone. They both sing with emotion and conviction, making you feel every word they sing. When Tems and I finally had a chance to meet last year at the Grammy Awards, we just exploded on each other, giving each other so much love. I know she will make it far because she’s a talented writer, singer, and producer—my only hope for her is that she becomes one of the biggest artists of her time. Talent is one thing, but how you treat people and treat yourself in this industry brings longevity, and I believe she will be around for a while because she’s a beautiful human being inside and out.”
