Grammy-winning Nigerian sensation Tems added yet another milestone to her illustrious career as she was honoured at Billboard’s inaugural Global Power Players Event, held Wednesday at the stylish Shoreditch House in East London.
The star-studded evening saw Tems recognized alongside music legends such as Sir Elton John and EMPIRE founder and CEO Ghazi Shami, in a celebration of global influence and innovation in the music industry.
Tems was presented with the Diamond Award by Nkosiyati Khumalo, the incoming editor of Billboard Africa. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, the Oscar-nominated singer paid tribute to the ongoing rise of African music on the global stage.
“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 the culture,” she said. “This has been a really great honor, especially given that African music is moving to heights that have never been seen before, and Billboard is one of the key players in moving that needle forward.”
The night also celebrated Sir Elton John, who received the Creators’ Champion Award, and Ghazi Shami, who was honoured with the prestigious Clive Davis Visionary Award, presented by Nigerian rap icon and YBNL label boss, Olamide.
Adding to the night’s groundbreaking moments, Billboard officially launched its first-ever U.K. Power Players chart, spotlighting industry leaders shaping the future of music in the UK and beyond.
Tems’ recognition at the Global Power Players event further cements her legacy. She holds the distinction of being the most-awarded African artist in Billboard history and, in 2024, became the first Nigerian woman to be honoured at Billboard’s Women in Music gala.
