5 Best Moments as Tems Brings the Heat to Billboard’s The Stage at SXSW London

Billboard’s The Stage hit SXSW London on Thursday night (June 5), marking the first time the event took place in the U.K.  The show at the capital’s Troxy was headlined by Lagos-born, London-based superstar Tems, a day after she collected the Diamond Award at the Global Power Players Event alongside Sir Elton John and EMPIRE CEO Ghazi. Speaking from the stage, she celebrated Billboard for championing African music on a global scale.

The special ticketed event was one of SXSW London’s biggest draws and comes after days of live performances and thought-provoking panels throughout Shoreditch. The Stage has become a staple at SXSW in Austin, with 2025 headliners including John Summit, Koe Wetzel and Grupo Frontera in a genre-busting showcase of some of music’s most sought-after names.

It’s another crowning glory for current Billboard cover star Tems following her rapid rise over the past few years, culminating in a Grammy win in 2025 for best African music performance. Speaking to Billboard on her success and staying authentic, she said, “It feels good to be able to do this on this scale. My life is a dream.” Tems released her debut album Born in the Wild in June 2024 to critical acclaim.

The Stage featured a number of performers during the night, giving punters at the historic venue a glimpse of the present and future of music from both the U.K. and Africa. Botswana’s Amantle Brown opened proceedings, with London-based rising star LULU. both appearing on the bill as well.

These are five highlights from The Stage’s SXSW London debut.