The past few weeks have been a victory lap for the women of Afrobeats. Following the release of Ayra Starr’s acclaimed sophomore album, The Year I Turned 21, Tems has finally dropped her long-anticipated debut album, Born In The Wild. This moment has been years in the making for the fans of Tems, who have feasted on her previous EPs and singles and patiently waited for her full-length project.
Born In The Wild is a grand arrival. Already known for her genre-bending collaborations, Tems delivers a cohesive 18-track experience. The guest list is selective, featuring only two superstars of their realms, American rap superstar J. Cole and Nigeria’s raving singer, Asake.
Tems, a Grammy winner, Oscar nominee, and multi-platinum recording artist, has already established herself as a global force. The album delves deeper. It’s a peek behind the curtain, a glimpse of the person navigating the whirlwind of success.
Temas confronts moments of self-doubt, and the struggle to maintain self-confidence amidst skyrocketing fame. She explores the complexities of relationships and the journey of trusting herself. Born In The Wild feels like a personal journal, attesting to the growth she’s experienced. It’s the story of an artist who has put in the work, faced her challenges, and is now ready to conquer the next chapter.
This album is a celebration for Tems’ fans, a culmination of their long wait. But more importantly, it’s a testament to the artist’s own journey, a vulnerable and honest exploration of self-discovery and artistic evolution. Born In The Wild marks not just a debut, but a new chapter in the remarkable story of Tems, a true force in the Afrobeats scene and beyond.
Listen to Born in The Wild here.