Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, better known as Tems, has stressed the importance of keeping Afrobeats true to its Nigerian origins and purpose.
Speaking on The Breakfast Club podcast, Tems reflected on the genre’s global success and its cultural significance.
During the interview, Tems expressed pride in the international rise of Afrobeats, calling it more than a passing trend. “Afrobeats is not just a temporary trend; it’s a movement,” she noted, emphasizing the genre’s growing influence across the world.
She explained that Afrobeats is deeply personal to the artists, as their music reflects their individual experiences. “Every artist talks about their life, what matters most to them. It could be introspective or about what’s happening in the country or even their personal lives. It’s all about the artist’s perspective,” Tems said.
Highlighting the essence of Afrobeats, Tems emphasized that the genre’s core is its ability to uplift and provide joy, particularly for Nigerians. “Afrobeats is structured to be danceable. Nigerians love it because it helps them escape their worries and enjoy life—that’s what Afrobeats gives,” she added.
Tems also pointed out Afrobeats’ deep connection to African culture, noting that while the genre gains popularity internationally, it’s crucial to remember its Nigerian roots. “Afrobeats serves a unique purpose for the Nigerian people. You can listen to other genres like R&B or reggae depending on your mood, but Afrobeats is about originality from Nigeria,” she said.
Concluding her thoughts, Tems mentioned that as Afrobeats continues to spread across the globe, it will remain rooted in Nigeria while bringing joy to international audiences. “If you’re from outside Nigeria and enjoy Afrobeats, you’re sharing in what Nigerians have created. It’s originally from them,” she remarked.
In a related interview, Jamaican dancehall icon Buju Banton shared his thoughts on the rise of Afrobeats. He noted that while both Afrobeats and Reggaeton draw inspiration from Reggae and Dancehall, they often fail to acknowledge their Caribbean roots. Banton criticized Afrobeats for distancing itself from Jamaican artists despite its clear links to Dancehall and Reggae, adding that African artists often collaborate with musicians from other regions, but rarely with their Jamaican counterparts.
Tems, who has received numerous awards, including a Grammy, four BET Awards, and three Soul Train Music Awards, continues to be a leading figure in Afrobeats, contributing to its ongoing global rise while staying connected to its Nigerian origins.
