In a groundbreaking move that bridges the worlds of music and sports, Nigerian singer-songwriter Temilade Openiyi, widely known as Tems, has become a club partner of Major League Soccer’s (MLS) San Diego FC. This partnership not only underscores Tems’ rising global influence but also highlights the club’s commitment to cultural diversity and community engagement.
Tems’ Meteoric Rise in Music
Tems first garnered widespread attention with her self-produced debut single, “Mr. Rebel,” in 2018. However, it was her collaboration with Wizkid on the 2020 hit “Essence” that catapulted her into international stardom. The song received critical acclaim and was dubbed the “song of the summer” by various media outlets. In 2022, Tems achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first African female artist to feature at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, thanks to her contribution to Future’s “Wait for U,” alongside Drake.
Her versatility was further showcased when she covered Bob Marley’s “No Woman, No Cry” for the soundtrack of Marvel’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” This rendition earned her nominations for both the Academy Award and the Golden Globe, solidifying her status as a global music icon. In 2024, Tems released her debut studio album, “Born in the Wild,” which received both critical acclaim and commercial success.
A New Venture: Joining San Diego FC
Tems’ decision to join San Diego FC’s ownership group marks her first foray into the sports industry. Expressing her enthusiasm, she stated, “I am thrilled to join San Diego FC’s ownership group and to be part of a Club that celebrates creativity, culture, and the power of community. Football has a unique way of bringing people together, and I am excited to help build something special in San Diego, a city that thrives on diversity and innovation.”
San Diego FC: A Club Embracing Diversity
San Diego FC, set to make its MLS debut in the 2025 season, has been proactive in building a diverse and dynamic ownership group. The club’s chairman, Sir Mohamed Mansour, expressed his delight at Tems’ inclusion, stating, “We are delighted that Tems has joined San Diego FC as a Club Partner. Tems is a globally significant artist who will help us to reach new audiences and spread the word about our unique project, which of course has its foundations in sub-Saharan Africa through the unique Right to Dream organization.”
The club’s CEO, Tom Penn, echoed these sentiments, highlighting Tems’ cultural impact and alignment with the club’s values. “Tems is an extraordinary artist and cultural force worldwide. We are honored to have her join our Club and bring her visionary perspective to San Diego FC. Her passion for empowering the next generation aligns perfectly with our mission, and her commitment to creating opportunities for young talent domestically and globally reflects the core values of Right to Dream.”
The Role of Pave Investments
Tems’ partnership with San Diego FC is facilitated through her company, The Leading Vibe, in collaboration with Pave Investments, an African private investment firm. Pave Investments has a history of supporting sports initiatives, having been involved in leading an investment group for NBA Africa in 2021. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to fostering talent and creating opportunities within the sports and entertainment sectors.
San Diego FC’s Inaugural Season and Future Prospects
As San Diego FC prepares for its inaugural MLS season in 2025, the club has been actively building its roster and establishing its presence in the soccer community. The team’s first match is scheduled for February 23, 2025, against the LA Galaxy at Dignity Health Sports Park. The inaugural home match at Snapdragon Stadium will take place on March 1, 2025, against St. Louis City SC.
The club has also announced a series of celebration nights for its inaugural season, including Youth Club Night, Military Appreciation Night, and Hispanic Heritage Night, reflecting its commitment to engaging with diverse communities.
Conclusion
Tems’ integration into San Diego FC’s ownership group signifies a harmonious blend of music, culture, and sports. Her involvement is anticipated to bring a fresh and creative perspective to the club, fostering community engagement and celebrating diversity. As both Tems and San Diego FC embark on this new journey, their collaboration promises to create unique opportunities and experiences for fans across the globe.
