Tems stopped ‘worrying about what people think’ and became one of Africa’s biggest stars
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Donning versatile fashion-forward pieces in typical Tems’ style, from edgy green googles and bold earrings and hat to, knee-high chunky boots, a red breastplate, shimmering bodycon and a big tulle skirt, she shone brightly on her Billboard Women in Music’s 2024 Breakthrough award honoree feature portraits.
Her remarkable fusion of sounds that “doesn’t perfectly fit into one genre,” has become one of Africa’s most notable musical exports. Though she has yet to release her debut album, her transfixing voice has extended far beyond the African continent — quickly becoming a fixture in pop music. Tems assures Billboard of her debut album release this year.
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“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,” she reflected on paving the way for a new generation of female African artists. “It just encourages me to keep going.”
“It wasn’t an overnight thing,” Tems reflected on transitioning to making music full time. “I was selling myself short by not pursuing my passion and worrying about what people think.”
Read her full feature as Billboard Women in Music’s 2024 Breakthrough award honoree here.
CREDITS
Talent: @temsbaby
Photographer: @zoemcconnell
Styling: @violettafanciesyou
Hair: @hausofshee
MU: @thefacefairy
Manicure: @aleyahnailedit
On site Producer: @joonrepresents