“I Would Have Been A Teacher If Not For Music”- Tems Reveals

Nigerian singer Tems recently revealed that if music hadn’t worked out, she would have pursued a career as a mathematics teacher or accountant, showing her strong academic side alongside her artistry.
Tems’ Surprising Career Revelation
Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, shared during a fan Q&A on X (formerly Twitter) that she might have become a mathematics teacher if she wasn’t making music. She even mentioned accounting as another possible path. This revelation surprised fans, as it highlighted her intellectual interests beyond the stage.
From Digital Marketing to Global Stardom
- Before fully committing to music, Tems worked as a digital marketer until January 2018.
- She released her debut single “Mr Rebel” in July 2018, which gained local attention.
- Her international breakthrough came in 2020 when she featured on Wizkid’s hit “Essence”, later peaking at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100.
- Today, Tems is a Grammy-winning artist, recognized globally for her unique sound and powerful voice.
Why This Matters
Temilade’s story resonates because it shows the intersection of talent and discipline. Many artists often have hidden passions or career paths they could have taken. For Tems, her love for numbers and teaching reflects a side of her personality that fans rarely see. It also underscores the importance of following one’s passion—even when it means leaving behind a stable career.
Tems’ revelation is more than just a fun fact—it’s a reminder that behind every superstar is a person with multiple dreams and talents.


