Richardine Bartee
Name: Tems
Representing: Lagos, Nigeria
Genre: R&B/Soul
For fans of: Ayra Starr
Single from: N/A
Produced by: Tems
Song of the Day: June 19, 2020
Label(s): Temilade Openiyi
Although ‘Try Me’ came out in August, its lyrics are and may remain relevant for as long as human life walks this Earth, and beyond. Some days ago, one of my business partners told me about Tems, the talented Nigerian artist is “focused on promoting the movement currently shaping alternative music in Nigeria to advance the culture, and conversations alike.” Before June, I didn’t know who she was. Based on my research, I’ve found she is 24, celebrated, has two projects under her belt ‘Illumination’ and ‘Time Swap’ EP, has been nominated for several awards and is an Alternative R&B singer, who writes and produces.
As the days start and end in quarantine, the question in this song’s hook is the only question I have. Why do you want to try Black women? Why do you want to try minorities in America? Why do you want to try my soul?
Let’s do our best to remain cautious due to the novel coronavirus and safeguarded against police brutality in America, which often leads to televised Black deaths. Happy Juneteenth everyone.
