Tems Wins Best African Music Perfomance at Grammys 2025
This is a significant milestone as it marks the first time a Nigerian artist has won in this category.
Melony Akpoghene
●3rd February 2025
Tems has made history by winning the Best African Music Performance category at the 67th Grammy Awards for her song, “Love Me JeJe”, She knocking out Burna Boy, Chris Brown, Davido, Asake, and Yemi Alade.
Congrats Best African Music Performance winner – "Love Me JeJe" @temsbaby. #GRAMMYs
This marks her second Grammy win, following her 2023 victory for her contribution to Future’s “WAIT FOR U.”
The Best African Music Performance category, introduced in 2024 and first awarded to South African artist Tyla for her hit single “Water,” has become a significant platform recognizing the global impact of African music. Thus, Tems’ win is a significant milestone as it marks the first time a Nigerian artist has won in this category.
However, the singer’s historic Grammy nomination for Best R&B Song didn’t result in a win, with SZA’s “Saturn” taking the prize. The Nigerian artist was also the first female Nigerian and first Nigerian solo act nominated in the R&B category.
Furthermore, Compton-born Kendrick Lamar led the night with five wins, followed by Sierra Ferrell (four), Beyoncé, Charli XCX, and St. Vincent (three each). His diss track “Not Like Us,” a centerpiece of his recent rivalry with Drake, proved a knockout with voters. The song earned Lamar golden gramophones for Best Rap Song, Best Rap Performance, and Best Music Video.
Jay-Z secured his 25th Grammy for his work as a songwriter on Cowboy Carter, giving him a new record as the most-awarded rap artist.
Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter finally earned her the Album of the Year Grammy, after four prior nominations.
Chappell Roan took Best New Artist, continuing the streak of female solo artists winning that category.