Award-winning British rapper and singer Tinie Tempah has opened up about his Igbo heritage, crediting his ancestry as a major source of his creativity and artistic drive.
In a video shared on his YouTube page on Monday, the multi-platinum star spoke proudly about his Nigerian roots, saying he believes there is something deeply creative about people from the Igbo tribe.
“I am from the Igbo tribe and I do believe that there’s something very intrinsically creative about Igbo people,” Tinie Tempah said.
Reflecting on his growing awareness of his cultural background, the rapper pointed to the global impact of celebrated Igbo writers as inspiration. He referenced literary icons such as Chinua Achebe and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, noting their recognition on the world stage.
“Growing up, I started to understand that a lot of Black authors from Nigeria, specifically the Igbo tribe, who have won the Booker Prize — that’s a global book award,” he said. “The likes of Chinua Achebe, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who was on Beyoncé’s album as well, have won that award.”
Tinie Tempah went on to link his own success in music to his lineage, describing his heritage as a powerful creative foundation.
“So, I think my talent and creativity has something to do with my heritage and lineage and origin. And that’s beautiful,” he added.
The revelation has resonated with fans, particularly Nigerians and members of the Igbo community, who see his comments as another moment of global recognition for African heritage and its influence across music, literature, and culture.
