Tems to Perform at Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening Ceremony
Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems is set to take the stage at the Obama Presidential Center’s official grand opening ceremony on Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Chicago. The Obama Foundation announced the star-studded lineup on June 16, placing the Grammy-winning artist alongside music legends including Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Common, The Roots, Marc Anthony, Eddie Vedder, and U2’s Bono and The Edge.
The ceremony, scheduled for 11 a.m. CT at the Center’s John Lewis Plaza in Jackson Park, will be livestreamed globally on the Obama Foundation’s website, YouTube, and social media channels. It marks the formal dedication of the long-awaited presidential centre, which opens to the public the following day, June 19—Juneteenth.
Tems, whose full name is Temilade Openiyi, has emerged as one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary global music. Known for her soulful, introspective sound that blends Afrobeats, R&B, and alternative influences, she gained international acclaim with tracks like “Essence” (with Wizkid) and her 2024 album Born in the Wild. Her selection for this high-profile event underscores her rising stature and the growing global recognition of African artists on major international stages.
Obama Foundation CEO Valerie Jarrett described the ceremony as “unlike any other — filled with music, performances, and hope”, aimed at inspiring civic engagement and celebrating values of service and community. The inclusion of Tems highlights the Center’s emphasis on cultural diversity and the bridging of African and American narratives.
This performance adds to a series of notable milestones for Tems in 2026, including strong Spotify editorial placements and continued international touring. For many fans across Africa and the diaspora, seeing a Nigerian artist share the stage with such iconic names at an institution tied to Barack and Michelle Obama’s legacy represents a powerful moment of cultural visibility. The Grand Opening Ceremony is invite-only, but the broader public celebration continues June 19–21 with free programming on the campus. Those unable to attend in person can watch the livestream beginning at 11 a.m. CT on June 18.
