Nigerian singer-songwriter Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has once again made history by winning the ‘Best African Music Performance’ award at the 2025 Grammy Awards. The prestigious event, held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, saw the Afrobeat sensation cement her status as one of Africa’s biggest musical exports.
Tems’ win in this category, which was introduced in 2024 to recognize the growing global influence of African music, marks a significant milestone for the Nigerian music industry. She triumphed over strong contenders, including Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, and South Africa’s Tyla.
Her award-winning song, “Heaven’s Door,” captivated audiences worldwide with its soulful lyrics, rich melodies, and fusion of Afrobeats and R&B. The track resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile artist with global appeal.
In her acceptance speech, a visibly emotional Tems expressed gratitude to her fans, collaborators, and the African music community. This is for every African girl who dreams big. Thank you to my team, my fans, and everyone who believed in me. African music is unstoppable! she said.
Her speech was met with thunderous applause as fellow artists and music executives celebrated her achievement.
Tems’ journey to Grammy success has been nothing short of inspiring. Rising to fame through her collaborations with global artists like Wizkid, Drake, and Future, she has consistently showcased her unique sound and artistic depth.
This marks her second Grammy win, following her 2023 victory for ‘Best Melodic Rap Performance’ for her contribution to Future’s “Wait For U.” Since then, she has continued to push boundaries, representing Africa on the world stage with her distinctive voice and storytelling ability.
Tems’ win underscores the increasing recognition of African music on the global stage. With categories dedicated to African music at major award shows and an ever-expanding fan base, the continent’s artists continue to gain international acclaim.
As Tems continues to break barriers, her success serves as an inspiration for aspiring musicians across Africa. With her soulful voice, compelling storytelling, and unwavering dedication, she is paving the way for the next generation of African artists to shine on the world stage.
Following her Grammy win, Tems is set to embark on a world tour, performing in major cities across Africa, Europe, and North America. She has also hinted at an upcoming album, which fans eagerly anticipate. With her latest accolade, Tems has further solidified her place in music history, proving that African music is not just a trend but a global force to be reckoned with.
