Nigerian artist Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has called for a broader understanding of African music and culture, urging the world to move beyond common misconceptions, particularly regarding Ghana and Nigeria.
During an interview with Fashion Bomb Daily at the 2025 Met Gala on May 5, the “Love Me Jeje” singer highlighted the vast array of musical genres that Africa has to offer, emphasizing that the global focus on Afrobeats overlooks many other rich traditions.
“I feel like we can go further in every single aspect of sound. We’re not just about Afrobeats; there’s Amapiano, Afrosoul, R&B, Afro Jazz, and so many other genres in Africa that I feel like people are not fully tapped into yet,” Tems explained.
Beyond music, Tems stressed the importance of cultural experiences. She encouraged individuals, especially those living abroad, to visit Ghana and Nigeria to gain a deeper understanding of African life and dispel any preconceived notions.
“I always encourage people to go to Lagos, Ghana, and just take a vacation—not for any specific agenda, but to see for yourself and experience it before forming an opinion or conclusion. Just go and see how you feel,” she advised.
Tems believes that the allure of Ghana and Nigeria lies in their rich traditions and vibrant creativity. “I think it’s just the creativity, the daily effort, the fashion, the songs, the traditions, and the culture,” she added, highlighting the unique essence of these nations.
