Tems Highlights Lack of Respect for Women in Nigerian Music Industry

Grammy-winning Nigerian Afropop artist Tems has spoken out about the pervasive lack of respect for women in the Nigerian music industry, describing early career struggles to be taken seriously in a male-dominated environment. Highlighting the high personal costs and limited options faced by female artists, Tems emphasized the need for authenticity and resilience despite industry pressures. In response, she launched The Leading Vibe Initiative, a platform designed to provide greater access, opportunities, and visibility for women in Africa's music scene through workshops and mentorship. Tems aims to change how women perceive themselves in music and encourages aspiring female musicians to set clear personal and professional boundaries. Other prominent Nigerian female artists like Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade have also addressed gender-based barriers within the industry. Tems additionally confronted negative body image criticism publicly, reinforcing her message of self-acceptance and empowerment.