Nigerian singer-songwriter Temilade Openiyi, widely known as Tems, has secured the prestigious Best African Music Performance award at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards. The accolade, presented at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, 2 February 2025, recognises her hit single Love Me JeJe, a modern reinterpretation of Seyi Sodimu’s beloved 1997 classic.
Tems’ victory in this highly competitive category places her at the forefront of African music on the global stage. She triumphed over an impressive lineup of nominees, including Yemi Alade with Tomorrow, Asake and Wizkid’s collaboration MMS, Chris Brown’s Sensational, which features Davido and Lojay, and Burna Boy’s Higher.
Released on 26 April 2024, Love Me JeJe blends the rhythmic essence of Afrobeats with Tems’ distinctive R&B-infused sound, offering a fresh yet nostalgic take on the original. Her interpretation has resonated with audiences worldwide, further cementing her status as a formidable force in contemporary music.
This marks Tems’ second Grammy win, following her recognition in 2023, and reinforces her position as one of Africa’s most influential artists. Her success at this year’s ceremony underscores the growing global appreciation for African music and its cultural significance.
The 2025 Grammy Awards celebrated a diverse array of talent across multiple genres, with outstanding contributions from artists spanning various musical traditions. Tems’ latest achievement not only enhances her already impressive career but also serves as an inspiration for emerging musicians across the African continent. Her triumph exemplifies the rich and evolving legacy of Nigerian music, further elevating its presence on the international stage.
