Don’t Judge Africa Until You Visit Nigeria, Ghana – Tems
Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has called on the world to move beyond stereotypes and experience the true essence of Africa by visiting countries like Nigeria and Ghana.
Speaking at the 2025 Met Gala in New York during an interview with Fashion Bomb Daily, the singer encouraged foreigners to explore the continent firsthand, rather than relying on preconceived notions.
“I always encourage people to go to Lagos and Ghana for vacation,” she said. “Just go and see for yourself before forming an opinion. Experience it and see how you feel.”
Tems emphasized that Africa’s beauty lies in its vibrant cultures, creativity, and everyday expression through music, fashion, and tradition. “The beauty is in the creativity, the daily efforts, the looks, the songs, the traditions and the cultures,” she added.
She also addressed the common misconception that African music is limited to Afrobeats. Highlighting the continent’s diverse musical landscape, Tems noted that African artists are experimenting across multiple genres, including Afrosoul, R&B, Amapiano, and Afro-Jazz.
“We are not just Afrobeats,” she said. “There are so many genres in African music that people haven’t fully explored yet.”
Tems’ comments reflect a growing call among African creatives for the world to engage more deeply with the continent’s cultural and artistic richness.
