How Tems stole the show with her ‘view-blocking’ outfit at Oscars

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Temilade Openiyi, aka Tems, a Nigerian award-winning singer, has come under fire for her Oscars outfit.

Tems, who was nominated for a Grammy for her song “Lift Me Up” from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, wore a puffy white gown that wrapped around the back of her head.

At Sunday night’s Academy Awards, her elaborate ensemble obscured the view of some attendees seated behind her.

Reacting on social media, some viewers criticized Tems for her view-blocking outfit while others said she stole the show.

Here are reactions Newsclick Nigeria gathered:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tems has given her reasons for wearing a view-obstructing dress to the 2023 Oscars.

Speaking with Harper’s Bazzar, Tems in a pre-Oscars interview gave behind-the-scenes details on the controversial gown.

According to the Grammys award winner, she decided to “go all out”  and “make the most” of her first Oscars attendance.

“Two years ago, I would’ve said no to this dress,” she said. “But it’s my first Oscars — I am going to go all out. I really wanted to make the most of the day. The dress is also my way of celebrating my work and the people around me, celebrating my country, and celebrating the people that are rooting for me. This dress says ‘Yes, yes, I am here!’”

Speaking on her recent groundbreaking achievements on the international music scene, the ‘Crazy Tings’ singer said this was just the beginning for her. Tems mentioned that her collaboration with musical giants like Beyonce and Rihanna were indications she was on the “right path”.

“If the biggest women in the world love my work to such an extent that they are working with me, then that must say something. My work is actually reaching places, it’s making some type of impact.

“And that is insane! I really am just trying to keep my feet on the ground and continue running and doing things that are a hundred per cent authentic to me. Evolving, learning, growing. It’s just the beginning for me,” she said.

With her collaboration with singer Rihanna; music producer, Ludwig Göransson; and Black Panther’s director, Ryan Coogler, for the movie’s soundtrack, ‘Lift Me Up’, Tems was nominated for Best Original Song at this year’s Oscars

The category was however won by  Kaala Bhairava and Rahul Sipligunj for ‘Naatu Naatu’.