“She Only Had N200” — Tems’ Manager, Muyiwa Awoniyi, Reflects on Humble Beginnings and Unshakable Drive

In a world where success stories often start from silver spoons, Tems’ rise to international fame serves as a powerful testament to raw talent, authenticity, and unrelenting belief in self—even when the odds are overwhelmingly stacked.

During a recent episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, Muyiwa Awoniyi, manager of Grammy award-winning Nigerian sensation Temilade Openiyi, aka Tems, took fans on an emotional journey through her humble beginnings. Awoniyi revealed that when he first met Tems, she had only N200 in her account—not enough to buy a decent meal, let alone finance a music career.

But despite her financial situation, there was something special about her that couldn’t be ignored.

“Even though she didn’t have money, she would order food for all of us. She didn’t even have a way of earning. That told me everything. Tems was different.” — Awoniyi

💼 Not Just Talent, But Integrity

One of the most striking moments in the interview was when Awoniyi recalled how Tems insisted on signing her part of their contract—a move that surprised him, given how most artists are often reluctant to deal with paperwork.

“She was chasing me to sign my own part. I’ve never seen that before,” he said, adding that it was this moment that convinced him to scrap the idea of a traditional manager-artist contract and build a company with her instead.

That’s not just professionalism—it’s vision.

🧠 Opinion: Tems is the Blueprint for a New Generation

Tems’ story is more than inspiring—it’s a blueprint for how raw dedication, honesty, and respect for partnerships can create global icons from local corners.

She didn’t rise on the back of gimmicks or viral controversies, but through consistent artistry, emotional vulnerability, and the kind of work ethic that inspires everyone who hears her story. In a music industry where style often overshadows substance, Tems is substance defined.

And for young artists today, the lesson is clear: You don’t need millions to start—you need mission.

🌍 From N200 to the Grammys: The Journey is Still Ongoing

With hits like “Essence,” “Free Mind,” and a Grammy win already in her bag, Tems has become one of the most important voices of this era, not just in Afrobeats but in global music. But what’s most impressive isn’t her awards—it’s her mindset.

As Awoniyi beautifully puts it, Tems is “different”—and that difference has reshaped the global narrative of what a Nigerian woman in music can be.

✨ Final Thought

If you're ever doubting your own path, remember: Tems had just N200, but she also had vision, courage, and character. The world eventually caught up to that.

🔊 What do you think—should more upcoming artists focus on building solid relationships and companies instead of just chasing fame?

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