Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems surprised and delighted audiences with a powerful performance on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert. 

Tems primarily rendered songs from her forthcoming debut album, Born in the Wild, slated for release on June 7th. This exclusive preview offered an exciting glimpse into the artistic direction of one of music’s most exciting new voices.

Backed by a talented band and vocalists, the performance kicked off with the album’s lead single, “Me & U,” before it transitioned into previously unheard tracks, “Unfortunate” and “Forever.” Tems also revisited some familiar ground either, slipping in the fan-favorite “Ice T” from her 2020 project, For Broken Ears. The performance closed with “Love Me Jeje,” another single from Born in the Wild.

In 2018, Tems took a leap of faith, quitting her day job to pursue music full-time. Her self-produced debut single, “Mr. Rebel,” marked the beginning of her ascent.  Her 2020 EP, For Broken Ears, introduced the world to her raw talent. Followed by hits like Wizkid’s “Essence”, which she featured on, “Damages” and “Free Mind,” Tems captured audiences not only in Nigeria but across the globe.

Born in the Wild is her first album since her breakout. Last year, singles like “Me & U” and “Not an Angel” built anticipation for this highly anticipated full-length debut. In 2021, Tems performed a home concert for the series and since then she’s garnered a Grammy Award, collaborated with Beyoncé, and penned tracks for Rihanna.

Watch her performance here:

 

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