Nigerian singer, and songwriter Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems made a major statement at the 2022 Soul Train Awards winning the best new artist.
Tems beat Long and the red-hot Steve Lacy, CKay, Coco Jones, Dixson, Fireboy DML, and Muni Long. The Nigerian singer is the first artist from Africa to win in this category.
Tems was featured on Wizkid’s global hit “Essence,” which won the best collaboration last year.
Beyoncé was the top winner at the Soul Train Awards, which aired on BET and BET Her on Saturday (Nov. 27). She won album of the year for the fourth time with Renaissance, song of the year for the third time with “Break My Soul,” and best collaboration for “Make Me Say It Again, Girl,” a pairing with Ronald Isley & The Isley Brothers.
The 2022 Soul Train Awards was hosted by actor and comedian Deon Cole.
Below is the full list of winners.
2022 Soul Train Awards Winners
Best New Artist
Tems
Certified Soul Award
Mary J. Blige
Best R&B/Soul Female Artist
Jazmine Sullivan
Best R&B/Soul Male Artist
Chris Brown
Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
Maverick City Music X Kirk Franklin
Song of the Year
Break My Soul — Beyoncé
Album of the Year
Beyoncé, Renaissance
The Ashford and Simpson Songwriter’s Award
Hrs & Hrs — Muni Long
Best Dance Performance
About Damn Time — Lizzo
Video of the Year
Smokin Out the Window Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic
Best Collaboration
Make Me Say It Again, Girl — Ronald Isley & the Isley Brothers Feat. Beyoncé
Legend Award: The Time
Lady of Soul Award: Xscape
