Tems: From Rising Star to Afrobeats Global Ambassador
Tems has rapidly ascended from a promising artist to a defining voice in the global music landscape. Her commanding presence at Hot 97’s 2025 Summer Jam wasn’t just a performance; it was a statement. this is the story of how a Nigerian artist is not only captivating audiences but also reshaping perceptions of afrobeats on a worldwide stage.
A Star is born (Again) at Summer Jam
The energy shifted the moment Tems stepped onto the Summer Jam stage. She didn’t rely on a large entourage,her confidence radiating with every step.A simple “Thank you. Tell me more. Tell me more,” delivered with a playful strut, perfectly encapsulated her magnetic personality – a preview of the dynamic set to come.her opening with the 2021 hit “Fashion Killer” promptly set the tone. Tems delivered a genre-bending performance, seamlessly blending afropop, R&B, and other influences. Fan favorites like “Sability” and “Rush” ignited the crowd, while her collaboration with Wizkid, “Gimme Dat,” added further fuel to the fire.
A surprise remix of “Goodbye (Warm Up),” featuring Asake, layered over the iconic beat of DJ Khaled’s “wild Thoughts,” demonstrated her willingness to experiment and connect with a broader audience. Beyond the vocals,Tems showcased her skills as a complete performer with dynamic choreography.
Notably, she stood alongside Diamond Platnumz and Asake as one of only three African headliners, a testament to Afrobeats’ growing influence.
Defining the “Sabi Girl” Spirit
Following her electrifying performance, Tems sat down with REVOLT to discuss her journey, confidence, and cultural identity. The term “sabi girl,” which she’s embraced, holds a powerful meaning. In Nigerian Pidgin, sabi means “to know,” representing someone self-assured, clever, and possessing a strong sense of self.
However, Tems emphasizes that even embodying this confidence doesn’t mean having all the answers. “One thing people don’t know that I’m still figuring out is life, I guess. I’m still figuring out life. like everybody else, I’m still figuring out life,” she shared, offering a relatable perspective.
Influences & Artistic Vision
Tems’ artistry isn’t confined by genre. Her sound is a rich tapestry woven from Afropop, R&B, and a multitude of other inspirations. When asked about her core influences, she offered a compelling blend of tradition and contemporary icons:
Core Values: Tradition, morals, and her Nigerian culture.
Musical Icons: Rihanna and Beyoncé, alongside other artists who inspire her.
Personal Foundation: Her mother and her faith.
her admiration for Rihanna is well-documented. After meeting at a fenty event in London in April 2024, Tems was invited to join Rihanna during the Crop Over Festival in Barbados just months later. “great. I still talk about it every day,” she said with a grin, highlighting the profound impact of the experience.
Championing Afrobeats on the Global Stage
Tems is undeniably a leading figure in the Afrobeats movement. She’s bringing the genre to international stages, solidifying its place in the global music scene and challenging the notion that it’s merely a fleeting trend.
“Afrobeats is going to the world. I mean, Afrobeats is already big.you know? It’s just gonna go bigger and bigger and bigger,” she confidently stated. She recognizes the importance of her role as a front-facing artist,proudly pushing her culture to audiences worldwide.
What does this mean for you, the music lover? You’re witnessing the rise of a generation of artists who are redefining the sound of global music. Tems isn’t just making music; she’s building bridges between cultures and inspiring a new wave of confidence and self-expression.
Further Exploration:
[9 Nigerian Producers Behind Some of Your Favorite afrobeats Hits](https://www.revolt.tv/article/9-nigerian-producers-behind-some-of-your-favorite-afrobe
