Nigerian star Tems has earned two nominations at the 2026 Soul Train Awards, adding another major recognition to her growing presence in the global R&B space.
Tems is nominated for R&B/Soul Song of the Year for her song “What You Need”, while also receiving a nomination for Spotify’s RNB X International Artist.
Notably, Tems is the only artist nominated in both of the Soul Train Awards’ two new fan-voted categories, placing her in contention for awards that recognize both the impact of individual R&B songs and the genre’s growing international reach.
“What You Need” is up against songs from some of the biggest names in contemporary R&B, including Brent Faiyaz, Bruno Mars, Chris Brown and Bryson Tiller, Daniel Caesar, Justin Bieber, Kehlani, Mariah the Scientist and Kali Uchis, Olivia Dean, and Tyla.
Her second nomination comes in the Spotify’s RNB X International Artist category, where she competes alongside Cleo Sol, FLO, kwn, Odeal, PARTYNEXTDOOR, and Tiana Major9.
The recognition is particularly significant for Tems given the role R&B has played throughout her career. From her early releases to her international breakthrough, the Nigerian singer has consistently blended elements of R&B, soul, and Afrobeats into a sound that has connected with audiences far beyond Africa.
Tems has also previously been recognized by the Soul Train Awards. In 2021, she received nominations following the global success of “Essence” with Wizkid, marking an early moment in her rise within the international R&B space.
The Soul Train Awards is one of the major annual celebrations of Black music and culture, with the ceremony centered on Soul, R&B, and Hip-Hop and featuring both established legends and emerging artists. The awards are presented by BET and continue the legacy of Soul Train, the influential music and dance television program created by Don Cornelius.
Over the years, the ceremony has recognized some of the biggest names across R&B, soul and hip-hop, while also creating space for new generations of artists. Past honorees and winners include artists such as Usher, SZA, Summer Walker, T-Pain, Janelle Monáe, Maxwell and Ashanti.
The 2026 edition will be hosted by Anthony Anderson and is scheduled for November 27, airing on BET.
This year also introduces fan voting in the two new categories, giving audiences a direct role in deciding the winners.
These two nominations add another chapter to Tems continued evolution from a Nigerian breakout artist into one of Africa’s most recognizable voices in contemporary R&B.