“People Don’t Respect Women in Music” – Tems

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Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has opened up about the challenges and gender-based disrespect faced by women in the music industry.

 Speaking in an interview with the BBC, Tems recounted her early struggles to be taken seriously as an artist simply because she is a woman.

“People don’t really respect women in the [music] industry,” she said, noting that her journey into mainstream recognition came with persistent battles against bias and underestimation.

The singer, who has gained international acclaim with chart-topping hits and collaborations with global stars, revealed that her success has inspired her to help change the narrative for other women in music.

 She has launched The Leading Vibe Initiative, a platform dedicated to empowering female artists by providing access to opportunities, larger audiences, and a fairer chance at success in the industry.

Tems explained that the platform would not only focus on talent development but also guide women in defining their careers on their own terms. 

She urged upcoming female musicians to establish clear goals, maintain a strong sense of identity, and set firm boundaries about what they are willing or unwilling to do in the pursuit of fame.

“What are the things that you wouldn’t do for fame and the things that you would do?” she asked, stressing the importance of self-awareness and integrity in a competitive and sometimes exploitative environment.

Her remarks echo similar sentiments from other Nigerian female music powerhouses such as Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade, who have also spoken out about the gender-specific challenges within the industry, including unequal pay, limited opportunities, and stereotypes that undermine women’s contributions.

Tems’ boldness in addressing the issue reflects a growing movement of female voices refusing to accept systemic biases in the creative sector. 

With her global platform and initiatives like The Leading Vibe Initiative, she hopes to foster a new era in which female artists in Nigeria and beyond can thrive without facing the barriers she once encountered.

As her career continues to soar, Tems’ advocacy stands as a reminder that music is not just about talent but also about creating an environment where every artist—regardless of gender—has the freedom and support to succeed.

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