Grammy-winning Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer Tems has shared how struggles with self-rejection once made it difficult for her to accept love from others, even when it was genuine.

The Afrobeats and alternative R&B star, who gained global fame through her feature on Essence alongside Wizkid, and collaborations with Beyoncé, Drake, and Future, revealed that she became so used to rejecting herself that she struggled to embrace acceptance from others.

Speaking during a conversation with media personality Angie Martinez, the “Love Me Jeje” singer explained that her mindset had been shaped by constant internal rejection.

“I had already rejected myself so many times in my mind that when people genuinely accepted me, I couldn’t take it in. I was used to expecting rejection, so even when it wasn’t there, I still felt it,” she said.

She noted that this pattern made it hard for her to receive affection, as she had come to believe she was undeserving of it, despite people around her showing real care and acceptance.

However, the Lagos-born artist stressed the importance of self-awareness, encouraging people to reflect on their inner fears and understand the root of their emotions.

“I always tell people to become more aware of themselves,” she added.

Born Temilade Openiyi, the 31-year-old rose to prominence with her 2020 hit Damages and has since become one of Nigeria’s biggest global music exports.

Among her major achievements is earning an Academy Award nomination for co-writing Lift Me Up by Rihanna for the film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

She also recently collaborated with British rapper Dave on the track “Raindance,” a release that has sparked conversations among fans, including speculation about their relationship.