The global domination of Tems is a music industry fairytale, but the truth is raw hustle. Born Temilade Openiyi, Tems is not just a singer. She is a Grammy-winning force. The story of Tems includes fierce independence and massive global statistics.
In this article, Pulse deep dives to uncover the figures, the early struggles, and the key people who helped launch Tems to superstardom in 2025. Tems is breaking records, and her net worth reflects this historic run. The world is finally catching up to her sound.
Profile Summary
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Full Name: Temilade Openiyi
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Date of Birth / Age: 11 June, 1995 (age 30 as of 2025)
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Birthplace: Lagos, Nigeria
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Nationality: Nigerian
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Occupation: Entertainer (Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer)
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Religion: Christianity
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Parents: Mr. Openiyi (Father) and Ms Olasimbo Davidson (Mother)
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Marital Status: Single
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Years Active in Music: 2018 – Present
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Net Worth: $5 million USD (est.)
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Annual Earnings: Approximately $13 million USD (est.)
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Instagram: @temsbaby
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Facebook: @temsbaby
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X(formerly Twitter): @temsbaby
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TikTok: @temsbaby
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YouTube: @temsbaby
Tems Education
Tems received a solid education in Lagos. At age 11 years old, she joined her school choir and soon began singing in falsetto but was noticed by her music teacher who coached her and taught her how to play the piano. She attended Dowen College in Lekki. During her time there, her talent was spotted. During her secondary school days, Tems was frequently bullied because of her voice.
After secondary school, Tems moved abroad for her university education. Tems pursued a degree in Economics. She studied at The IIE MSA, formerly known as Monash South Africa, in Johannesburg. Despite studying Economics, the heart of Tems was always in music. The foundation of the Tems sound is self-taught production. This DIY ethos is crucial to understanding Tems. She learned to produce music using YouTube tutorials. Tems had to overcome serious initial doubts. Tems confessed to CNN about her early struggles. “It was really hard to get people to take me seriously — not just as a producer, but as a singer, period,” Tems recalled. “I didn’t feel safe, I didn’t feel seen, and I didn’t feel supported for a very long time.” This feeling of being overlooked fuels the drive of Tems.
Who are Tems’ parents?
Tems was born to a Nigerian mother and a British-Nigerian father. Her parents divorced when she was five years old, and she was subsequently raised by her mother as a single parent in Lagos, Nigeria.
Her mother Olasimbo Davidson, is Nigerian and of Yoruba descent. Tems’ mother was the woman featured in a popular Nigerian television advert for Royco seasoning cubes in the 1990s. Tems has a very close relationship with her mother, often acknowledging her sacrifices and support. She even included her mother’s voice on a track (“Temilade Interlude”) on her debut EP, For Broken Ears.
Her father is British-Nigerian. However, his identity remains out of public knowledge. He left the family when Tems was young and did not provide much support afterward. Tems has one known sibling, an older brother named Tunji. They grew up together and he often practiced music with her when they were younger, accompanying her on guitar. The two remain close and her brother was even featured on her Apple Music radio show, “The Leading Vibe”.
Tems Musical Style
Tems’ sound sits in a unique space, a smooth fusion of Alternative R&B, neo-soul and Afrobeats, known in Nigeria’s creative circles as alté. Her music leans heavily into mood and emotion. The production is often atmospheric and layered, creating a soft, immersive world that draws listeners in from the first note.
Unlike the fast, dance-driven pulse of mainstream Afropop, Tems prefers a slower, more thoughtful approach. Her songs are built around rich harmonies, warm grooves and clean, minimalist instrumentals that leave plenty of room for her signature contralto voice to shine.
Her writing is deeply introspective. Themes of self-worth, love, vulnerability and personal growth run through her work, giving her music a relatable emotional weight. Tems’ style is defined by honesty and depth, and it is this authenticity that has set her apart on the global stage.
Tems Vocal Key
Tems possesses a powerful, versatile contralto range. This is the lowest female vocal type, known for its deep, rich, and often smoky or sultry texture, particularly in the lower registers. While Tems has performed across various musical keys depending on the song, she frequently performs in keys that complement her lower range.
For example, her hit song "Free Mind" is notably in the key of F minor. She leverages the depth and warmth of her voice to deliver soulful, emotionally resonant performances, capable of belting powerful notes in her chest voice and employing a soft, delicate falsetto.
Tems Discography
Tems’ discography includes one studio album, three extended plays (EPs), and numerous singles and collaborations as both a lead and a featured artist.
Studio Albums (LPs)
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Born in the Wild (Released: June 7, 2024)
