Muyiwa Awoniyi, known as Donawon, the manager of Grammy-winning Afrobeats star Temilade Openiyi, popularly called Tems, shared a heartfelt anecdote about her early struggles during an interview on a podcast on May 25, 2025.
Donawon recounted meeting Tems in 2017 when she had only ₦200 in her bank account, highlighting her determination despite financial hardship. At the time, Tems, then an unsigned artist in Lagos, was working a digital marketing job while pursuing music, with her breakout single Mr Rebel still a year away.
Donawon, a talent manager with Rebel Music, described their first encounter at a studio in Surulere, where Tems’ raw talent and unique alto voice stood out despite her modest circumstances. He recalled driving her home after a session and learning she could only afford a ₦200 meal, a moment that underscored her resilience. Donawon became her manager in 2018, guiding her through the release of Try Me, which hit number one on Nigeria’s SoundCity charts in 2019. Their partnership led to Tems’ global rise, including collaborations with Drake, Beyoncé, and Wizkid, and her 2022 Grammy for Wait for U with Future and Drake.
The story resonated widely, with fans praising Tems’ journey from obscurity to stardom. Donawon emphasized her work ethic, noting she recorded over 50 songs in 2018 alone, refining her Afro-soul and R&B sound. He also addressed misconceptions about Tems’ success, clarifying that her breakthrough was gradual, built on years of persistence. The ₦200 anecdote has inspired aspiring artists, with Tems herself commenting on Instagram, “God’s timing is perfect,” crediting Donawon’s belief in her. The story highlights Nigeria’s vibrant music scene, where talent and tenacity often overcome economic barriers, positioning Tems as a role model for young creatives.