Vipi Radio
Award-winning Nigerian artist TEMS recently engaged in a conversation with Kendrick Lamar for Interview Magazine, where they delved into topics ranging from life to music and careers.
In their exchange, TEMS shared insights about her journey.
She disclosed to Kendrick that she was an extreme introvert during her youth, recounting instances when she shied away from attention, even turning down photo requests.
Her affinity for music grew as she found solace in the radio, particularly resonating with emotionally charged songs by Celine Dion, a beloved artist in Nigeria.
TEMS began writing songs at a young age, initially focusing on verses that expressed her feelings.
I was an extreme introvert when I was younger.
TEMS
I didn’t really talk much. My mom’s friends would be like, “Yo, Temi, come take a picture,”
and I’d just turn around.
I’m not sure when the first time I heard music was, but I found myself loving the radio, and I used to hear Celine Dion.
Nigerians love Celine Dion.
Her songs are very emotional, jump-off-a-cliff type songs.
They entered my soul.
I think that’s where my love for music started.
Reflecting on her early experiences, TEMS emphasized the importance of remembering the initial drive behind one’s artistry.
She stressed that while gaining recognition is significant, the core motivation should always be rooted in sharing stories and messages.
When you become more known or seen, it’s very easy to get caught up in, “What do people expect of me now?”
TEMS
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.
TEMS added that external expectations shouldn’t sway her from staying true to her instincts and maintaining her unique identity.
She told LAMAR,
What I’m concerned about is not being able to tap into that place anymore just because I betrayed myself, and that’s why I have to stick with my gut.
Because how do you go back after betraying your trust?
TEMS
Kendrick asked her whether she feels like she has made any mistakes or regrets anything so far in the last five years,
The thing about making mistakes is there’s grace. We’re all going to make mistakes, but what happens when you do?
READ THE WHOLE CONVERSATION HERE
