Nigerian music sensation Temilade Openiyi, widely known as Tems, has drawn global attention to the vast and diverse world of African music, urging fans and listeners to explore beyond just Afrobeats.

0

Speaking during an interview with Fashion Bomb Daily at the 2025 Met Gala held on May 5, Tems emphasized that while Afrobeats has gained massive international recognition, it only scratches the surface of Africa’s musical landscape.

1

“I feel like we can go further in every single aspect of sound. We’re not just like Afrobeats,” Tems said. “There’s Amapiano, there’s Afrosoul, there’s R&B, there’s Afro Jazz. There are so many genres in Africa that people have not fully tapped into yet.”

2

Tems, known for her soulful and genre-blending music, has often infused elements of R&B and Afrosoul in her work—demonstrating the musical richness she speaks of. Her call to action highlights the need for global audiences to open up to the broader spectrum of African sounds that reflect different emotions, cultures, and stories across the continent.

3

She added that Africa’s musical identity is not monolithic and deserves a deeper appreciation that goes beyond what’s trending on global charts.

4

Tems’ comments come at a time when more African artists are gaining international exposure and redefining the soundscape of world music. Her words serve as a reminder that Africa is not just a contributor to global music trends but a wellspring of original, evolving genres waiting to be discovered and celebrated.

5

Her statement has sparked renewed conversations online, with many music lovers echoing the need to explore and support the diversity within African music.

6