Tems Stuns Nairobi in Her Long-Awaited Blankets & Wine Comeback
Nairobi lit up as Grammy-winning Nigerian sensation Tems delivered a memorable headline performance at Blankets & Wine on September 28, 2025, marking her highly anticipated return to Kenyan soil.
After years of promises and a cancelled show in 2022, the anticipation was heavy — but Tems did not disappoint. Her arrival in the city had already stirred excitement, with her landing publicly announced and shared across social channels. Instagram+2X (formerly Twitter)+2
🔥 Setting the Stage & Vibes
The festival grounds at Laureate Gardens, Kasarani, were abuzz early, as fans streamed in for sundowners, art markets, and local support acts leading into Tems’ set. Blankets & Wine, known for its relaxed but high-quality production and its fusion of music, food, fashion and culture, had long teased the inclusion of Tems as a marquee act. Wikipedia+2KBC+2
Though most local previews talked about her upcoming concert, some outlets positioned her Nairobi visit as more than a show. TechTrends Kenya, for example, argued that Tems’ presence was a signal: not just a headline performance, but a push toward recognizing women as architects of the music industry — not just performers. TechTrendsKE
🎙 Highlights & Crowd Reaction
- As she took the stage, fans erupted into cheers, chanting her hits like Free Mind, Essence, and Love Me JeJe.
- Tems moved effortlessly between powerful vocals and intimate moments, connecting with the audience by sharing reflections about her journey and gratitude for the support in Kenya.
- The crowd’s energy remained electric from start to finish — many on social media called it one of the best shows Nairobi has hosted in recent years.
- Offstage, Tems also hosted sessions or interactions through her Leading Vibe Initiative, empowering women in music with skills, mentorship, and creative networking (a component local media had already flagged as part of her Nairobi mission). TechTrendsKE
📈 Local Buzz & What It Means
Tems’ return has dominated conversation across Kenyan entertainment circles, social media, radio shows, and digital news. Her canceled concert in 2022 still lingers in local memory, so this performance was viewed with both optimism and caution. Mpasho+2allAfrica.com+2
Given Nairobi ranks high among Tems’ listeners globally, the local impact is meaningful — her performance is seen by many not just as international star power, but as recognition of Kenya’s place on the Afrobeats / global music map. TechTrendsKE
Some analysts argue this is a test: Can Kenya’s industry, sponsors, promoters, and fans support more frequent, high caliber performances by African women? Can local infrastructure match that ambition? Tems’ show may end, but the questions she’s sparking could last.