Tems Shines at 2026 BET Awards
By Esther Korantemaa Offei
Nigerian singer Tems has expressed excitement over the growing global recognition of African music after emerging as one of the standout stars at the 2026 BET Awards, where she captivated audiences with her fashion, performances and stage presence.
The Grammy-winning artiste was among the most talked-about African acts at the ceremony, held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, drawing widespread praise for her red-carpet appearance and memorable performances throughout the night.
Reflecting on the growing international influence of African music, Tems said she was proud to witness the continent’s continued success on the global stage.
“It’s amazing, you know, coming from Nigeria. I’m just really happy where African music is going right now. Everybody’s popping off and everybody’s shining, so I’m absolutely just happy to be a part of that,” she said.
Tems arrived at the awards ceremony in a custom-made dark brown feathered halter gown, attracting attention from fans and fashion critics alike before taking to the stage for a soulful performance of her hit song, “What You Need”.
Her stripped-back rendition showcased her signature vocals and earned a standing ovation from the audience, reinforcing her reputation as one of Africa’s leading contemporary music talents.
The Nigerian star later returned to the stage for one of the night’s most celebrated moments, joining American rapper Tierra Whack in a tribute performance honouring music legend Lauryn Hill, who received the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award.
The duo performed the classic Fugees hit Fu-Gee-La, drawing enthusiastic applause as part of a star-studded tribute that celebrated Lauryn Hill’s influence on generations of musicians.
Tems’ appearance at the BET Awards marks another milestone in her rapidly expanding international career, which has seen her collaborate with some of the world’s biggest artists while helping to elevate Afrobeats and African music on the global stage.
Her comments also reflect the growing confidence among African artistes as the continent’s music industry continues to gain international recognition, with Nigerian and Ghanaian musicians increasingly dominating global charts, major award ceremonies and sold-out concerts.
For many fans, Tems’ performance and message symbolised not only personal success but also the continued rise of African music as a powerful force in the global entertainment industry.
