Tems On Her Genre Dilemma – Afrobeats or R&B?

Nigerian singer and songwriter Tems has been making waves in the music industry with her unique sound and undeniable talent.

Her soulful voice and emotionally charged lyrics have captured the hearts of fans worldwide, earning her a well-deserved place in the spotlight. However, there’s been a bit of confusion surrounding the genre of her music.

While Tems identifies her music as R&B, many charts and blogs categorize her work as Afrobeats. So, what’s the story behind this genre dilemma, and why does it matter?

First, let’s clarify what these genres entail. R&B, short for Rhythm and Blues, is a genre deeply rooted in African American musical traditions. It’s characterized by soulful vocals, intricate melodies, and a focus on emotional storytelling.

On the other hand, Afrobeats is a contemporary music genre that originated in West Africa and fuses various styles, including highlife, hip-hop, dancehall, and funk. It’s known for its infectious rhythms, catchy hooks, and often dance-oriented themes.

Tems’ music undoubtedly carries elements of both R&B and Afrobeats. Her soulful vocals and emotive lyrics align with R&B’s core characteristics, while the Afro-infused beats and rhythms in her songs are reminiscent of Afrobeats.

The categorization of an artist’s music isn’t just a matter of semantics; it can significantly impact their visibility and recognition in the industry. Many blogs and charts tend to classify artists based on prevailing trends and commercial viability.

Additionally, music genres are often fluid and subject to interpretation. Artists frequently draw inspiration from multiple sources, creating a blend that defies easy categorization. Tems’ willingness to explore and experiment with various musical elements is a testament to her artistic versatility.

In the end, the debate over whether Tems’ music is R&B or Afrobeats is less important than the impact her music has on listeners. Tems’ music speaks to the soul, and that’s what truly matters.

So, whether you call it R&B or Afrobeats, there’s no denying that Tems’ music is a genre of its own.