Tems’ recent interview with the BBC has reignited a crucial conversation about the challenges women face in the music industry—especially when it comes to respect. The Nigerian singer-songwriter, whose soulful voice has captured global audiences, opened up candidly about how respect is something she often has to fight for, regardless of her success.
According to Tems, sometimes it feels like you have to prove yourself twice as hard just to be seen as half as good. It’s not just about talent—it’s about navigating a space that wasn’t built with you in mind.
Her words resonate with many women artists who have faced similar struggles. From being stereotyped to encountering gatekeepers unwilling to acknowledge their creative vision, the path for women in music is often riddled with barriers that go beyond the music itself.
Stereotypes and Double Standards For many female artists, respect is hindered by persistent stereotypes. Tems pointed out that women are often judged on appearance or expected to conform to certain images rather than being celebrated for their artistry alone. She explained, there’s this constant pressure to fit into a mould, whether it’s how you dress, how you act, or even what kind of music you make.
This sentiment is echoed by British singer-songwriter Jorja Smith, who once said, women in music have to balance being authentic with not upsetting the people who control the industry. Such pressure limits creative freedom and reinforces the unfair double standard women face.
Power Dynamics and Gatekeeping
Industry power structures remain heavily male-dominated, which often sidelines women from decision-making roles and key collaborations. Tems reflected that even when you break through and get noticed, respect doesn’t automatically come with it. You have to keep pushing, keep proving.
Grammy-winning producer and artist Megan Thee Stallion has spoken openly about the need to claim space in an industry that historically marginalises women, especially women of colour. She emphasises the importance of women supporting each other to dismantle these barriers.
Mental Health and Creativity Under Pressure
The toll of these challenges extends beyond career frustrations—it deeply impacts mental health. Tems described moments when the weight of disrespect threatened to dim her passion. “It’s exhausting to constantly defend your worth. It makes you question yourself, your art, and why you even started.”
Many female artists highlight the importance of mental health resources and supportive networks to survive and thrive in such a demanding environment.
A Changing Tide Despite the challenges, there is hope.
The rise of social media and independent platforms has empowered women to bypass traditional gatekeepers and connect directly with fans. Tems and other women artists are using their growing influence to speak out, demand respect, and inspire change.
As Tems put it, respect isn’t just a word—it’s something you earn by being unapologetically yourself, and by standing up not just for yourself, but for every woman who’s ever been overlooked.
Their stories remind us that the music industry still has a long way to go—but that change is happening, one powerful voice at a time.
