“If Anything Changed My Life, It Was Beyoncé” — Tems Clarifies Narrative Around Her Global Breakthrough

Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems has set the record straight about the turning point in her music career, saying that while her collaboration with Wizkid on “Essence” was monumental, it was Beyoncé’s recognition that truly opened global doors for her.

In a post shared on social media, Tems addressed common claims that “Essence” — her 2020 hit collaboration with Wizkid — was the defining moment of her rise to international stardom.

“People be saying ‘Essence changed my life, shout out Wizkid,’ but when Beyoncé’s team emailed me, Essence wasn’t even out,” Tems wrote. “If anything changed my life, it was Beyoncé fr.”

Fans recall that Tems gained global attention after being featured on Beyoncé’s 2022 album, Renaissance, and later working with Rihanna and Drake, cementing her place as one of Africa’s most influential contemporary voices.

While “Essence” remains a cultural anthem that helped push Afrobeats further into the global mainstream, Tems’ statement highlights the series of milestones — not just one — that have shaped her career trajectory.

Her comment has since sparked lively debate online, with fans sharing mixed reactions but all agreeing on one thing: Tems’ talent and journey are nothing short of phenomenal.