People don’t respect women in the Industry’ -Tems reveals

Nigerian Afropop sensation Tems has shed light on the persistent gender inequalities in the music industry, drawing attention to the systemic lack of respect for women in the space.

In an interview with BBC Africa, the two-time Grammy Award winner explained that her experiences as a woman give her a unique vantage point to push for meaningful change. “I just find that people don’t really respect women a lot in the industry. As a woman myself, I’m the best person to start something like this,” Tems shared.

Reflecting on her early career, Tems spoke candidly about the difficult realities female artists often encounter in a male-dominated Afropop scene. She recalled the tough choices she had to make and the limitations she faced. “I realised that there’s always a cost. There’s always a price that you pay. And a lot of those prices I wasn’t willing to pay, and there weren’t many options available,” she said.

While Afropop has taken the world by storm, propelled largely by male superstars like Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid, female trailblazers such as Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade continue to battle gender-based challenges. Tems is determined to change this narrative.

To champion this cause, she recently launched The Leading Vibe Initiative, a program designed to empower young African women pursuing careers in music. The project debuted in Lagos with a series of workshops, masterclasses, and panel discussions aimed at helping female vocalists, songwriters, and producers sharpen their skills, expand their networks, and seize more professional opportunities.

Tems urged aspiring artists to set firm personal boundaries and stay grounded in their values. “What are the things that you wouldn’t do for fame, and the things that you would do?” she posed, encouraging self-awareness and authenticity.

Her advocacy for self-acceptance also extends beyond professional boundaries. Earlier this year, she addressed online body-shaming with a message of body positivity: “It’s just a body. I will add and lose weight. I never once hid my body, I just didn’t feel the need to prove or disprove anyone.”

Since the release of her debut EP five years ago, Tems has risen to global prominence, collaborating with icons like Beyoncé and Rihanna, attracting over 17 million monthly Spotify listeners, and gracing major international festival stages. She is also set to join British band Coldplay for their sold-out Wembley Stadium performances.

Her ambitions stretch far beyond music. Tems has recently become a part-owner of the US soccer club San Diego FC, a move that reflects her broader vision. “I don’t see myself as just a singer, just a musician, just an artist. I’m much more than that,” she stated.

Through The Leading Vibe Initiative, Tems aims to dismantle stereotypes, reshape perceptions of women in African music, and pave the way for a new generation of female talent—talent that not only thrives but commands the respect it deserves.

Source: notjustok.com