The Dolby Theater hosted the 95th Academy Awards last Sunday, 12 March, 2023. Nominated, the Nigerian artist Tems unfortunately could not get the coveted trophy.
The contribution of Tems as songwriter on ‘Lift me up’ (Black Panther: Wakanda forever) was not unnoticed. This remarkable work caused her an nomination last January in the ‘Best Original Song’ category, making her the first Nigerian artist to be nominated by the Academy. In this category was also nominated Applause of“Tell It like a Woman” (Diane Warren), Hold my hand of “Top Gun: Maverick” (Lady Gaga and BloodPop), “Naatu Naatu” of “RRR” (M.M. Keeravaani and Chandrabose) and This is a life of “Everything Everywhere All at Once” ( Ryan Lott, David Byrne and Mitski).
Unfortunately for the Nigerian artist, fortune did not smile at her as at the Grammys Awards. The trophy slipped through his hands in favor of Keeravaani.
Il faut noter que Tems est habituée aux grands noms de la musique urbaine américaine. Elle n’a pas manqué de s’illustrer de la plus belle des manières auprès de Beyoncé sur l’album Renaissance et de Future ( Wait For U ft. Drake). C’est cette dernière performance qui a fait d’elle la première artiste nigériane à remporter un Grammy. Elle s’est également illustrée auprès de son compatriote Wizkid sur Essence qui est vite devenu un hit mondial.
Her writing style, her melodies and especially her sensual voice have made her one of the most popular Afrobeat artists of her generation.
One could then affirm that this “defeat” does not remove anything to the talent of Tems. She will certainly continue to produce good music and win trophies again and again.
Tems on Lift me up
Lift me up is a ballad written by Rihanna, Ludwig Göransson and Ryan Coogler in tribute to Chadwick Boseman.
Questionne on her inspiration source, Tems explains: “After talking with Ryan and hearing his direction for the movie and the song, I wanted to write something that portrays a warm embrace of all the people I have lost in my life. I tried to imagine how I would feel if I could sing to them now and express how much I miss them. Rihanna has been an inspiration to me, so hearing her convey this song is a great honor.“
Rihanna performed it wonderfully well at Awards Ceremony. This performance costed him a standing ovation from the audience.
Ardiès Sianou
