Tems Reveals How Writing Music Helps Her Release Pain, Forgive And Move On

Kehinde Adeleye

Nigerian singer and songwriter Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has revealed that writing music helps her process emotional pain, find healing and move on from difficult experiences.

The Grammy-winning artiste shared her perspective during a recent interview with EE72 Magazine, describing music as more than a passion because of the emotional relief she experiences through songwriting.

According to Tems, putting her feelings into music helps her release pain and reach a point where she can let go of the situations that caused it.

“Writing music helps me release pain and it helps me to heal,” she said.

She explained that completing a song often leaves her feeling whole again, making it easier to forgive and move forward.

“By the time I am done, everything I felt, it is gone. I can let the whole situation go. I can forgive. I can move on,” she added.

Beyond discussing the emotional benefits of songwriting, Tems also spoke about her approach to self-expression and artistic identity.

The singer said she was not interested in proving herself to others, emphasising that she understood her own identity and what aligned with her.

“I am not trying to prove who I am. I know what is for me and what is not for me,” she said.

Tems added that she was focused on embracing experiences and making the most of every moment rather than seeking external validation.

“I am trying to take everything in and make the best of every single moment,” she stated.

Her comments offer a glimpse into the personal perspective behind her creative process, highlighting how songwriting serves as an outlet for processing emotions while allowing her to embrace self-acceptance and personal growth.