Tems falls back actively to the music scene with a new track, “Me & U.” Since If Orange was a Place, her 2021 sophomore EP, the world has been fiending for another masterpiece with expectations sky-high.

Before she was thrust into mainstream attention, Tems fiercely guarded her sonic identity. She retells this in her recent chat with Kendrick Lamar. “I’m chasing a frequency,” the artist confessed. This track, “Me & U,” like others in her repertoire, validates Tems, echoing her resolute commitment to her craft. Over eager melodies and uptempo percussion that accommodates R&B elements, she sings. 

But even more interestingly, “Me & U” exposes a more mature version of Tems, who is unafraid to bare it all. There’s a certain element of braggadocio woven in the tender lyrical structure that is reminiscent of the Tems who reiterated in 2019, “I am the leading vibe.” Tems is coasting, soaring comfortably as she revels in her own power. Her artistry, while still retaining its originality, has evolved. 

Since her breakthrough into the mainstream scene in 2020, Tems has continued to ride waves of global admiration and unparalleled success, despite having just two EPs and a couple of singles under her belt.

Last year, she became the first Nigerian woman to win a Grammy award. She clinched the BET Awards for Best International Act and Best Collaboration, the latter for her remarkable contribution to the “Essence” remix alongside Wizkid. She also became the first Nigerian artist to debut at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. At the 2022 American Music Awards, Tems won the inaugural Favorite Afrobeats Artist category and secured the Favorite Hip Hop Song award.

Tems’ future in the music industry looks brighter than ever. This track positions her firmly on the frequency of her continued triumph in the music industry. And it may just be a prelude to a much-anticipated debut album.