Grammy Winner Joins Elton John as Honouree, Celebrates Africa’s Rising Music Influence
Nigerian superstar Tems added another milestone to her groundbreaking career on Wednesday, receiving the prestigious Diamond Award at Billboard’s inaugural Global Power Players Event in London. The Grammy and Oscar-nominated singer stood alongside music legend Sir Elton John and EMPIRE CEO Ghazi Shami at the star-studded ceremony in Shoreditch.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, the “Free Mind” hitmaker reflected on Africa’s growing impact on global music. “Being African and a musician is a whole new world,” Tems shared. “Billboard has been so supportive of not just African music but the whole scene and culture. This honor comes as our music reaches heights never seen before.”
A Night of Firsts
The event marked several historic moments:
- Tems became the most-awarded African artist in Billboard history
- The launch of Billboard’s first-ever UK Power Players chart
- Nigerian rap icon Olamide presenting the Clive Davis Visionary Award to EMPIRE’s Ghazi Shami
Sir Elton John received the Creators’ Champion Award, completing a triumvirate of honourees spanning generations and genres.
Breaking Barriers
Fresh off becoming the first Nigerian woman honored at Billboard’s Women in Music event last year, Tems continues shattering glass ceilings. Her recognition comes as Afrobeats dominates global charts, with the singer-songwriter at the forefront of the movement.
As African music enjoys unprecedented international success, Tems’ latest accolade proves the world is finally tuning in to the continent’s creative revolution – with Billboard helping amplify the sound.
“We’re just getting started,” Tems’ speech seemed to promise. For African artists and the industry watching, her Diamond Award shines as both celebration and inspiration.
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