Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems is experiencing a renewed sense of self as she embraces the success of her latest album, her growing global fanbase, and significant collaborations. In a recent interview, she opened up about the exhaustion that came with finishing her album, her feelings about performing in large venues, and the unexpected diversity of fans attending her shows. She also reflected on her early career, working with artists like Show Dem Camp, and how a chance connection with J. Cole led to a dream collaboration.
A Grueling Journey to Completing the Album
Tems describes the process of creating her album as a long, taxing journey that, at times, felt never-ending. She recalled moments of doubt when she wondered if she would ever finish the project. “At some point I was like, ‘Is this going to ever end? Am I going to live in this studio? Am I going to be old, I’m 50, and be like, when this album finally comes out?’” she said.
Despite those moments of fatigue, Tems expressed a sense of accomplishment and relief now that the album is complete. She no longer feels the “dread” of being trapped in the studio. Instead, she feels renewed and excited to continue creating music. The album has become a pivotal moment in her career, symbolizing both hard work and a fresh start.
The Surreal Experience of Performing at Radio City, New York
Tems is still coming to terms with performing in some of the world’s most iconic venues. She admitted that playing at New York’s Radio City Music Hall felt surreal and left her in awe. “I haven’t actually completely taken it in. I’m not even going to lie. I’m still like, ‘What’s going on?’” she confessed.
Being on stage is teaching her more about herself and her music. Tems spent much of the album creation process indoors, in the studio, and she was unsure how her music would be received by a live audience. However, seeing how her fans respond to her songs has been eye-opening. “Just to see the way they respond, it’s crazy,” she marveled.
Writing as a Form of Emotional Release
For Tems, music has always been a deeply personal form of expression. She revealed that she has used music as a way to release emotions since she was young. “When I was younger, I didn’t really talk to a lot of people, so music was the way I would [communicate],” she explained.
Her songs are born from personal experiences, and she sings her emotions, especially when they become too overwhelming to express in other ways. This authenticity has endeared her to fans who connect with the raw, emotional depth of her music.
Early Career: Finding Family in Show Dem Camp
Reflecting on her early career, Tems expressed gratitude for the support and sense of community she found working with Nigerian rap duo Show Dem Camp. She described herself as family-oriented but also someone who enjoys solitude. However, her time spent in the studio with Show Dem Camp and their collaborators was instrumental in her growth as an artist.
“When I met Show Dem Camp, that was when I first started to meet all the other artists that also used to collaborate with them,” she said. The studio sessions were pivotal in developing her social and music life, and they helped lay the foundation for her future success.
A Dream Collaboration with J. Cole
One of the highlights of Tems’ new album is her collaboration with American rapper J. Cole on the track Free Fall. Tems first met J. Cole casually, and they stayed in touch. While recording in Los Angeles, she decided to play him some of her new music. When he heard Free Fall, he was immediately drawn to the song, and Tems asked if he would contribute a verse. “He was like, ‘Of course,’” she recounted, still feeling honored by the experience. J. Cole’s contribution to the track has only added to the album’s success, and Tems is grateful for the collaboration.
A Surprising and Diverse Fanbase
Perhaps one of the most surprising revelations for Tems on her current tour is the diversity of her audience. She expected to see fans her age or younger but was astonished to find much older fans, children, and even babies attending her shows. “It’s surprising to me, I’m in shock, literally, ‘Huh?’” she said with amazement.
For Tems, this unexpected range of fans is one of the greatest blessings of her career. The ability to connect with people across generations is a testament to the universal appeal of her music.
As Tems continues to grow as an artist, she is embracing the many facets of her career—from the long nights in the studio to the electrifying moments on stage. With her renewed energy and an ever-expanding fanbase, the future looks bright for this rising star.
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