The Nigerian Grammy winner was the only African artist on a star-studded lineup celebrating the opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago.

Chicago, United States (Running Africa) — Nigerian music star Tems joined some of the world’s most celebrated artists on Thursday as she performed at the opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, further highlighting Africa’s growing influence on the global music scene.

The Grammy Award-winning singer was the only African artist featured on a star-studded lineup that included Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Bruce Springsteen, Jennifer Hudson, Bono, The Edge, Common, and Christina Aguilera.

Tems delivered a performance of her hit single Me & U before a distinguished audience that included former U.S. President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama. Also in attendance were former U.S. presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Joe Biden, alongside their spouses.

Addressing the audience before taking the stage, Tems expressed gratitude to the Obama family for the invitation.

“I’m so blessed and honored to be here. This one is to everyone in this room, to Mr. and Mrs. Obama and all the family,” she said.

The performance marks another major milestone for the Nigerian singer, whose international profile has continued to rise through Grammy success, global collaborations, and appearances on some of the world’s most prestigious stages.

Located on Chicago’s South Side, the Obama Presidential Center is designed as a museum, an educational hub, and a community space dedicated to preserving President Obama’s legacy while promoting civic engagement and leadership development for future generations.

For many African music fans, Tems’ appearance at the historic event underscored the growing global reach of Afrobeats and the increasing recognition of African artists in influential cultural spaces around the world.