RnB Singer Témi Is Bringing Back Old School Love :Interview

Toronto raised, Nigerian born Témi began his love affair with R&B began at age 5. This passion led him to be part of an R&B group in school. He continues this path by entering talent shows and contests to prove his talent. Later he started to write his own songs, speaking on his experiences, growth and those around him, he states “Everyone is going through something and having music to get you through a tough or happy time in life is pretty special. That inspires me!”

Témi is finding new ways to reach his fans during these unprecedented times by engaging in Virtual interviews and shows over the past few weeks. He's also using this time to create and lean into his passion. He believes you can use the internet to your advantage, knowing the possibilities are endless in expanding your music, brand, reaching more fans and bringing in an income.  

How would you describe the music that you typically create?

My new work is the realest part of ME musically that I have ever been able to create.  I do believe there is a stereotype with the new R&B music. I really want to bring love back into the music. It has been missing and I’m trying one song at a time to bring back that feeling of being in love.” 

What is your creative process like?

I generally engineer my own sessions. When writing I will listen and take in a beat/production a few times.  When I get into my “focus zone” I will vibe with what I feel and hum, sing and even throw in some words that inspire me and then I begin writing, adding vocals to the track.

 Who would you most like to collaborate with?

Tank and Kanye would be dope to collaborate with. I think they both have amazing talent and creativity.

If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?

I have always wanted to open for Tank and I was blessed to be able to do that earlier this year in February at the Black Diamond Ball in Toronto. 

Do you sing in the shower? What songs?

I tend to sing just around the house and shower.  It is so much of my life that it is habit to just have music in my head whether it is my own or something I heard on the radio. 

What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?

Honestly, I do what I love too. I work with mentoring youth artists, engineering for the City of Toronto and Nia Center.  It truly is a blessing to be able to use my talents in other ways.  I am so proud of when I see those in my programs use and apply the knowledge I have taught. 

Where have you performed? What are your favourite and least favourite venues? 

I have performed in so many places and I just enjoy performing. There is no true favorite or least favorite. As a performer you make the best of any stage to put on the best show for the audience. 

What is your favourite song to perform?

I love to perform and each of my songs creates something different when performing.  I love the energy when performing. 

Which famous musicians do you admire?

When I was younger artists like Dru Hill, Baby Face and Jon B gave me an appreciation for big voices and beautiful harmonies/melodies.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

Stay true, honest, and authentic to yourself and those around you. When you compromise who you are, you are never your best self in any aspect of life. 

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

All industries have pros and cons.  Learning from mistakes and asking questions is the best way to navigate through the music/entertainment industry.  You must really understand the business yourself first.  Artists forget to learn the ins/outs of the business from every aspect marketing, branding, management/team, contracts etc. When you dig deep and learn the business it is a lot less stress and you can just enjoy and have fun showcasing your talent. Those tough times created some amazing outcomes.  

What’s next for you?

I am currently wrapping up and recording my EP titled, “Ekundayo” meaning “sorrow becomes joy" in my native language Yoruba.  I’m very excited to complete and share this project, it has a lot of emotions and growth.  I will also be releasing a new single before Summer begins. 

What is one message you would give to your fans?

A simple, thank you!  Thank you for the support and inspiring me to continue my passion.