Two-time Grammy-winning singer Tems has come under fire after neglecting to mention Seyi Sodimu during her acceptance speech at the 67th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, USA.
The 29-year-old, who won Best African Music Performance for her hit ‘Love Me Jeje,’ faced criticism from fans and critics alike for not recognising Sodimu, the original singer of the song.
The track was nominated in the same category as ‘Tomorrow’ by Yemi Alade, ‘MMS’ by Asake featuring Wizkid, ‘Sensational’ by Chris Brown featuring Davido and Lojay and ‘Higher’ by Burna Boy.
South African artiste Tyla won the award for her song ‘Water’ in the category’s inaugural year.
During her acceptance speech at the Crypto.com Arena, Tems dedicated her win to her mother, ahead of her birthday.
She thanked her team, including Muyiwa, Wale and her stylist, saying, “Wow, dear God. Thank you so much for putting me on this stage and bringing me this team.”
“Tomorrow is my mum’s birthday, and this is her first Grammy. I just want to thank you, ma, because she has really done a lot for me and my brother. Happy birthday, mum,” Tems continued.
She concluded by saying, “To God be the glory. Honestly, He has changed my life so much.”
However, her speech prompted backlash on social media, with many questioning why she didn’t acknowledge Seyi Sodimu.
On X, user brosaik expressed disappointment, writing, “I think it was a major faux pas for Tems to forget to mention Seyi Sodimu in her Grammy acceptance speech. The song ‘Love Me Jeje’, which won in the Best African Music Performance category, originally belongs to Seyi Sodimu. Tems’ handlers made a big mistake.”
Another user, Jokotade added, “I think Tems should have said thank you to Seyi Sodimu too, for inspiring the song she won a Grammy for.”
LutreGlitz also joined in writing, “Wondering why she didn’t thank the owner of the original song though? Seyi Sodimu.” Many fans agreed, pointing out that it was only right for her to give credit where it was due, with some stating that the overwhelming moment may have caused her to forget.
Tems, who also received nominations for Best Global Music Album with her debut Born in the Wild and Best R&B Song with ‘Burning,’ has yet to respond to the backlash.
Seyi Sodimu has also not commented on the situation.
In 2023, Tems won the Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance alongside Future for ‘Wait For You’ and this latest nomination brings her total Grammy nominations to eight.
