Muyiwa Awoniyi, manager to Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems (Temilade Openiyi), has revealed that she was financially struggling when they first crossed paths.
Speaking on a recent episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, Awoniyi recounted how Tems had just ₦200 in her bank account at the time they met. Despite her situation, he said her dedication and strong will made a lasting impression on him, ultimately leading him to believe in her potential.
He shared, “There was something about Tems that made me say, ‘Forget a regular manager contract — let’s build a company together.’”
According to him, after she asked him to manage her, he initially prepared a contract for her to sign. But instead of hesitating — as many artists do — Tems was the one pushing him to finalize and sign the agreement, something he found unusual and inspiring.
“That’s when I knew she was someone I could build a long-term partnership with. We’d already been friends for about three months, and hadn’t even discussed working together. She used to just sit and listen quietly while I recorded podcasts with my cousin.”
Awoniyi further described how Tems, despite being broke and having no stable source of income, was still generous — often ordering food for them even when she couldn’t afford it.
“She didn’t have any money, no real earnings, but her mindset and actions were unlike anyone I’d seen before in Nigeria. She stood out.”
The story highlights the humble beginnings of one of Nigeria’s most celebrated music stars, showing how resilience and character can pave the way to greatness.