Nigerian music star Tems has been announced as one of the performers at the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center, set to take place in Chicago on June 18.
She will share the stage with a lineup of global music icons, including Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Bono, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera, Common, The Roots, Eddie Vedder, Marc Anthony, and U2’s The Edge. Actress and producer Marsai Martin is also expected to participate in the historic event.
Tems stands out as the only Nigerian artist on the lineup, marking another significant milestone in her rapidly rising international career. The ceremony, which will be livestreamed worldwide, is part of the official unveiling of the Obama Presidential Center and will take place at the John Lewis Plaza.
The Obama Foundation described the event as a once-in-a-generation celebration of democracy, culture, service, and hope. CEO Valerie Jarrett noted that the ceremony will be filled with music, performances, and inspiration.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama also highlighted the significance of the Center, describing it as a transformative project for Chicago’s South Side, aimed at promoting education, leadership, and community engagement. The Center will open to the public on June 19, with activities continuing throughout the Juneteenth weekend.
Tems’ inclusion in the prestigious lineup reflects her growing global influence. Over the past few years, she has achieved remarkable success on the international stage, including becoming the first African woman to top the Billboard Hot 100 with “Wait For U” alongside Future and Drake in 2022.
She has also performed at the FIFA World Cup closing ceremony, won a Grammy Award, received an Oscar nomination for her contribution to the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, and was named among Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world.
Her performance at the Obama Presidential Center opening further cements her position as one of Africa’s most prominent global music ambassadors.
