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They booed, threw bottles at me – Tems recounts initial rejection in music industry
Grammy-winning R&B sensation Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, has opened up about the tough beginnings of her music career, revealing that she once faced public humiliation while performing at a school event.
In a candid chat with Big Boy TV, the “Crazy Tings” singer recounted the moment she expected applause but was instead met with boos — and even plastic bottles.
“I remember one time I was going to perform at my school as an up-and-coming singer and I thought I was going to receiving a standing ovation.
But I got booed. They even threw plastic bottles at me,” she recalled.
Tems admitted that moments like these, along with other early rejections, could be attributed to her insistence on originality. Unlike many of her peers who relied on covers or familiar sounds, she chose to stay true to her unique style from the very start.
Reflecting on her journey, she expressed gratitude for maintaining her artistic integrity despite the initial pressures. Today, that same conviction has helped cement her status as one of Africa’s leading R&B voices.
In other news, the “Damages” crooner made the now-viral remark while appearing as a guest on the Korty EO Show, hosted by popular content creator Korty EO. In the middle of a relaxed and playful conversation, Tems was asked to define what love means to her, and her response instantly got people talking.
Without missing a beat, she said,
“Love is like when you have seen the person Yansh widely opened and you are like, I still want it.”
The blunt delivery, laced with humour and shock value, quickly made the rounds online, sparking debates, laughter, and plenty of raised eyebrows.