Nigerian music sensation, Tems, reached new heights in her already illustrious career as she was honored with the prestigious Diamond Award at the esteemed Billboard Global Power Players Event. The glamorous event took place at the chic Shoreditch House in East London and brought together a constellation of music industry icons and innovators.
Among the luminaries recognized alongside Tems were legendary musician Sir Elton John and EMPIRE founder and CEO Ghazi Shami. The evening was a celebration of global influence and creativity within the music landscape, highlighting individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing the industry.
During this momentous occasion, Nkosiyati Khumalo, the incoming editor of Billboard Africa, had the honor of presenting Tems with the coveted Diamond Award. In her acceptance speech filled with gratitude and humility, Tems acknowledged the pivotal role that platforms like Billboard play in amplifying African voices on a worldwide scale.
“Being African and a musician is a whole new world, and I feel like Billboard has been so supportive of not just African music but the whole scene and culture,”
Tems expressed sincerely.
“This recognition is truly an honor, especially considering that African music is reaching unprecedented heights globally, with key players like Billboard pushing boundaries.”
The evening also featured tributes to other industry titans such as Sir Elton John, who received the Creators’ Champion Award, recognizing his enduring impact on music. Additionally, Ghazi Shami was presented with the esteemed Clive Davis Visionary Award by Nigerian rap icon and YBNL label boss, Olamide.
In a groundbreaking move that underscored its commitment to recognizing excellence in diverse markets, Billboard unveiled its inaugural U.K. Power Players chart during this event. This initiative spotlights leaders within the UK music scene who are instrumental in shaping its future trajectory both domestically and internationally.
Tems’ acknowledgment at the Global Power Players gathering solidifies her position as a trailblazer within the industry. With numerous accolades under her belt, including being hailed as one of Africa’s most decorated artists by Billboard, she continues to carve out her place among music’s elite circles. Her milestone achievement also includes being recognized as the first Nigerian woman honored at Billboard’s prestigious Women in Music gala back in 2024.
The event served as a testament to not only Tems’ exceptional talent but also to the increasing global recognition of African artists making waves across genres. As she stands shoulder-to-shoulder with icons like Sir Elton John and Ghazi Shami on stages around London representing Africa’s rich musical heritage – it’s evident that Tems’ star power knows no bounds.
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