Tems Wins Second Grammy, Faces Mixed Reactions Over Acceptance Speech

Nigerian singer and songwriter Tems has secured her second Grammy Award, further cementing her place as one of the country’s most successful international artists. The win has sparked widespread celebrations, with President Bola Tinubu, fellow artists, and fans congratulating her on the achievement. However, her acceptance speech has also drawn criticism, igniting debate across social media.

Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, won the Grammy at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, adding to her growing list of accolades. This milestone follows her first Grammy win in 2023, when she received the award for Best Melodic Rap Performance for her contribution to “Wait for U” by Future, featuring Drake.

Following her victory, President Tinubu extended his congratulations, recognizing her as an inspiration to young Nigerians. Music star Davido also celebrated her win, referring to her as a “queen” in a social media post. Many fans and industry colleagues joined in the celebrations, praising her for consistently elevating Nigerian music on the global stage.

Despite the excitement, Tems’ acceptance speech has become a topic of controversy. While some praised her confidence and authenticity, others criticized her remarks, leading to a wave of mixed reactions. Critics argue that her speech lacked warmth and gratitude, while supporters insist she remained true to her personality.

Beyond the Grammy win, Tems took time to acknowledge veteran Nigerian artist Seyi Sodimu for his support in the success of her recent song, a remake of the classic hit Love Me Jeje. She expressed gratitude for his influence and encouragement, highlighting the importance of collaboration between generations in the music industry.

As the reactions to her Grammy win continue to unfold, Tems remains focused on her artistry. With two Grammy Awards to her name and an ever-growing global audience, she continues to push the boundaries of Afrobeats and R&B, solidifying her position as one of Nigeria’s most influential music stars.