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It’s like being in a zoo – Tems on dealing with fame
Nigerian R&B artist Tems has expressed her perspective on the overwhelming expectations that come with success, drawing a comparison between fame and the experience of being an animal in a zoo.
In a recently published dialogue with Kendrick Lamar for Interview magazine, she delved into her recent rise to prominence.
While acknowledging the weight of success-related pressures, she revealed her approach to handling them: remaining authentic to her own identity.
In her words, “When you become more known or seen, it’s very easy to get caught up in, “What do people expect of me now?” But for me, it’s like, “What do I expect of myself now?” Because you’re the one that has to live with yourself, the one that has to sleep with the decisions that you make.
Trusting yourself is so key, and I’m not going to stop trusting my guts just because people can see me now. It’s like being in a zoo. The animals don’t change their behaviour just because you’re looking at them. They’re always going to be who they are. So why should I change?”
The singer who received an Oscar nomination also offered valuable insights that hold relevance for both artists and fans.
She emphasized that retaining a connection with one’s initial motivations is the essential factor in maintaining a steadfast journey.
“Yeah, you have to remember how you felt when you started as an artist, to understand the reason you’re doing what you’re doing,” the singer advised. “Yes, it’s to be seen, or to make a name for yourself, but beyond that, why are you doing it? Most of the time, it’s because you have a story to share, a message to give.”
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