Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has made history by winning the Best African Music Performance award at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards held on Sunday.
Tems’ hit single “Love Me Jeje” triumphed over strong contenders, including “Tomorrow” by Yemi Alade, “MMS” by Asake and Wizkid, “Sensational” by Chris Brown featuring Davido and Lojay, and “Higher” by Burna Boy.
The song, a contemporary rendition of Seyi Sodimu’s 1997 classic, has garnered global acclaim since its release in April, earning Tems a place among Africa’s most celebrated music icons.
In an emotional acceptance speech, Tems expressed her heartfelt gratitude to God, her team, and her mother, whose birthday coincides with her Grammy win.
“Wow, dear God. Thank you so much for putting me on this stage and bringing me this team,” she began, holding back tears.
“Tomorrow is my mum’s birthday, and this is her first Grammys. I just want to thank you, ma, because she has really done a lot for me and my brother.”
She continued:
“Happy birthday mum. And I want to thank my team. Muyiwa, Wale, my beautiful stylist, and lovely girls… I love you guys. Thank you so much. To God be the glory. Honestly, He has changed my life so much.”
