Tems is the third African artist to join the global ‘RADAR’ playlist, following Columbia Records signed South African R&B singer Elaine and rapper Willy Cardiac Willy Cardiac.
Spotify launched ‘RADAR’ as part of its commitment to emerging artists, helping them to deepen their connection to exciting new audiences across all stages of their careers.
Since its launch in March 2020, there’s been over 22 global sister chapters and 115 RADAR-affiliated emerging artists around the world – from South Africa to Japan, Germany to New Zealand, and more.
Tems and Spotify’s new venture follows hot on the heels of her latest EP, ‘For Broken Ears’, which dropped on September 25 on various music platforms, including Apple Music. The 7-track album comes after the release of her debut hit singles “Try Me” and “Mr. Rebel” in 2018 and 2019 respectively.
Earlier this year Tems teamed up with American singer and songwriter Khalid, and fellow Nigerian artist Davido for the upbeat remix of Khalid’s latest single ‘Know Your Worth.’
Redefining Nigerian music scene; Tems
As an independent African artist, Tems is excited that her music will – as the result of this venture – now travel the world to reach millions of people. “Spotify’s support has really come a long way because I can now engage directly with my fans through Spotify and create a new experience.” She added: “It feels like I have access to a whole new world.’’
Tems is redefining the Nigerian music scene with her unique musical style, which fuses alternative R&B and Neo soul genres.
It was, however, the distinct feminist stance of her music that Spotify’s artist and label partnerships manager for South Africa, Phiona Okumu, particularly commended, stating: “We are so lucky to witness how young (rebel gang) leaders are changing the way women in music from Africa are viewed.”
*For our previous coverage of existing playlists and podcasts now streaming on Spotify, click here.
