Tems reflects on meaning of her name

As she ascends to new heights in her musical journey, Tems, the acclaimed Afrobeats star, finds profound significance in the essence of her Yoruba name, Témìládè. In an exclusive interview featured in Billboard magazine’s prestigious 2024 Women in Music issue, Tems delves into her personal connection with her name and how it resonates with her burgeoning success.

Témìládè Openiyi, known affectionately as Tems, shared her introspective thoughts with Billboard, expressing how her name, meaning “the crown is mine,” has taken on a deeper significance in light of her musical achievements. “Growing up, everybody just called me Temi. Nobody really called me by my full name. It wasn’t something that was on my mind,” she revealed. “It’s only now, as an adult, that I started realizing that it meant ‘The crown is mine.’ I think that’s really powerful. It feels manifested, based on how my life has gone,” she added.

Set to be honored at the forthcoming Women in Music awards ceremony on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, Tems joins a distinguished lineup of female luminaries in the music industry, including Ice Spice, NewJeans, Grammy winner Victoria Monét, Kylie Minogue, Charli XCX, Luisa Sonza, Young Miko, and American country singer Maren Morris.

Reflecting on her impact on aspiring artists and her journey to international stardom, Tems expressed her excitement at inspiring others while acknowledging the uncertainty of fully grasping her influence. “I’m not sure if I would ever really be aware of whatever impact my story has, but it feels inspiring to know that I’ve inspired others because I’m inspired by other people as well,” Tems remarked. “It just encourages me to keep going,” she added.

Tems’ rise to prominence continues to captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in contemporary music.