Nigerian singer-songwriter Temilade Openiyi, professionally known as Tems, has often spoken about the profound bond she shares with her mother, which has significantly influenced her personal life and musical journey. While there isn’t a direct quote where Tems states, “I share everything I have with my mom,” her actions and words in various instances reflect a deep sense of sharing, support, and dedication to her mother.
Early Life and Family Struggles
Tems was born to a Nigerian mother and a British-Nigerian father. Following her parents’ separation, she was raised by her mother alongside her brother. Growing up, Tems witnessed her mother’s resilience in the face of adversity. In a heartfelt revelation during a 2022 performance in London, Tems recounted a particularly challenging period when her mother suffered a broken leg after burglars invaded their home and held her at knifepoint. Despite these hardships, her mother remained a pillar of support. Tems shared, “I told her I wanted to do this thing. I want to actually release a song, I want to try. And even though we were struggling, she said, ‘Yeah, I’m with you. I think this is what you’re meant to do.'” This unwavering encouragement led to the release of her debut song, “Mr Rebel,” which she dedicated to her mother during that performance.
Financial Hardships and Sacrifices
Before achieving fame, Tems faced significant financial challenges. She has candidly spoken about times when she couldn’t provide for her family, leading her to make difficult decisions. In an interview, she revealed, “There were times when I was not just broke – I was broke and hopeless. I used to steal food. I used to go to my aunty’s house just so she could give me food to take home.” These experiences highlight the lengths she went to support her family, especially her mother, during tough times.
Musical Inspirations and Dedications
Tems’ music often reflects her personal experiences and the people who have shaped her journey. Her song “Témìládè Interlude” from the EP “For Broken Ears” features a recording of her mother explaining the origin of her name. This inclusion underscores the significance of her mother in her life and art. Tems explained that her mother defied Nigerian tradition by naming her herself, a gesture that signifies a deep personal connection and pride.
Shared Success and Gratitude
As Tems’ career ascended, she remained deeply connected to her mother, often expressing gratitude for her unwavering support. During performances, she has been known to dedicate songs to her mother, acknowledging the sacrifices made and the strength provided throughout her journey. This act of dedicating her work and successes to her mother exemplifies the profound sharing and bond they maintain.
Conclusion
While Tems may not have explicitly stated, “I share everything I have with my mom,” her actions, dedications, and the narratives within her music convey a deep sense of shared experiences, mutual support, and unwavering dedication to her mother.