Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems has once again reminded fans why she stands out in the music industry and this time it’s not for a new song, but for her refreshing honesty about what truly matters to her. In a recent interview with CNN, the Free Mind hitmaker revealed that while fame often comes with success, it has never been her main goal. What she really wants, she said, is comfort, peace of mind, and meaningful success.

Tems explained that she never chased fame while building her career. “Fame is just a bonus,” she said with a smile. “What I’ve always wanted is to be comfortable, to live well, and to be proud of what I create.”

Her statement quickly resonated with fans who praised her for her down-to-earth attitude. Many took to social media to applaud her maturity, saying that her mindset reflects how more young people are beginning to value balance and authenticity over pressure for constant visibility.

Tems on defining real success

During the interview, Tems talked about how her journey to success hasn’t been about trends or validation. Instead, she focuses on personal growth and emotional fulfillment. “Success for me is being able to do what I love and still feel at peace. You can be famous and unhappy, so I choose comfort and purpose,” she explained.

Tems also discussed her Leading Vibe Initiative, a mentorship platform she founded to empower young African women in the creative industry. She said her goal is to help others find stability and confidence without losing themselves to the demands of fame. Through this initiative, Tems hopes to inspire women to define success on their own terms.

Since breaking into global fame with hits like Essence and Free Mind, Tems has maintained a calm, grounded image. Even as she wins awards and headlines major events, she continues to emphasize self-care, authenticity, and purpose over external validation.

Her remarks have since gone viral, sparking conversations about the pressures of fame in today’s entertainment world. For Tems, though, it’s simple; comfort, happiness, and peace come first, and everything else is just a beautiful extra.