Tems Reveals Math Teacher Ambition

Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Temilade Openiyi, globally known as Tems, has disclosed the career path she envisioned for herself before achieving international success in the music industry. Her alternative profession reveals a surprising link to academics and finance.

During an interactive session with fans on the social media platform X on Tuesday, Tems was asked about her life’s direction had her musical career not materialized.

A fan directly posed the question: “If music didn’t work, what else do you think you would be doing today?”

Tems offered a concise and unexpected response, revealing her aptitude for numbers. She stated, “I might have been an accountant or a mathematics teacher.”

The multiple Grammy winner has previously shared details about her transition into music, revealing a bold leap of faith. She publicly confirmed that she quit her job as a digital marketer in January 2018 to focus entirely on her artistic passion.

Tems went on to release her self-produced debut single, ‘Mr Rebel,’ in July 2018, which garnered initial traction within Nigeria’s vibrant music scene.

Her profile skyrocketed significantly after her 2020 feature on Wizkid’s global hit, ‘Essence.’ The track, particularly its remix version featuring Justin Bieber, propelled her to international recognition, peaking at number nine on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart.