Grammy-winning artist Tems has revealed the transformative impact of her collaboration with Wizkid, sharing intimate details about her struggle-filled journey before their paths crossed. The revelations offer a rare glimpse into the early career challenges of one of Africa’s most successful contemporary artists and highlight the pivotal role established artists can play in elevating emerging talent.
Before becoming a global sensation, Tems faced the humble reality of rejection from local bars where she sought to perform weekly. The singer recounted how her ambition to secure a regular Friday performance slot was thwarted by a simple but significant obstacle – she didn’t have enough original songs in her repertoire. This setback prompted her to begin recording her own music, starting with just three songs.
The turning point in her career trajectory came in 2019 following the release of her breakthrough single “Try Me” and its accompanying music video. The release caught the attention of Wizkid, leading to what would become a career-defining collaboration on “Essence.” This meeting would prove to be the catalyst that propelled Tems from a struggling artist to an international sensation.
In her reflections, Tems’ honesty about her early career uncertainty resonates deeply. She described a period of merely “going with the flow” before the release of her EP, admitting that she wished she had dreamed bigger during those formative years. This admission offers a powerful message about the importance of vision and ambition in artistic development.
The impact of her collaboration with Wizkid extended far beyond the immediate success of “Essence.” As Tems revealed, this partnership opened doors to opportunities she hadn’t imagined possible, including catching the attention of global icon Beyoncé. The sequence of events underscores how strategic collaborations can accelerate an artist’s journey to international recognition.
Social media response to the interview has been overwhelming, with fans and industry observers acknowledging Wizkid’s role in Tems’ ascent to stardom. Comments like “Wizkid’s influence in Africa is different” and “Wizkid is the real goat he discovers hidden talent” reflect the widespread recognition of his impact on emerging artists in the African music scene.
The story has sparked discussions about the nature of success in the music industry and the importance of established artists supporting emerging talent. Tems’ journey from being rejected by local venues to collaborating with global superstars serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists while highlighting the unpredictable nature of success in the entertainment industry.
Industry observers note that Tems’ experience exemplifies the evolving landscape of African music, where local talents can rapidly transition to global stardom through strategic collaborations and mentorship. Her story has become a powerful testament to the potential for growth when preparation meets opportunity.
The revelation has also prompted conversations about the role of mentorship and collaboration in the music industry. Tems’ journey demonstrates how established artists can play crucial roles in discovering and elevating new talent, creating pathways for emerging artists to reach international audiences.
The impact of Wizkid’s influence on Tems’ career extends beyond their musical collaboration. As one social media user noted, “WIZKID had to come in for Beyoncé to see you,” highlighting how such partnerships can create cascading opportunities for emerging artists.
This story serves as a reminder of the music industry’s collaborative nature and the importance of established artists using their platform to elevate new voices. Tems’ willingness to share her journey, including its humble beginnings and moments of uncertainty, adds depth to her success story and offers valuable insights for aspiring artists.
As Tems continues to achieve new heights in her career, her candid reflection on her journey serves as both inspiration and instruction for the next generation of artists. Her story emphasizes that success often comes through a combination of personal dedication, timely opportunities, and the support of established industry figures willing to champion new talent.
