In an inspiring collaboration, Tems' Leading Vibe Initiative and Native Instruments have unveiled a captivating mini-documentary titled 72 Hours in Lagos. This short film, released on November 6th, takes viewers on an intimate journey through the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria, following three extraordinary female producers on their quest to redefine the music industry.
Tems (Courtesy)
Centered around the inaugural Leading Vibe Initiative, the documentary stars Saszy Afroshii, TinyBraz, and Gbots, each navigating the bustling energy of Lagos. Known for its chaotic charm, the city serves as a backdrop for these women as they seek to support, connect, and amplify the next wave of female music talent.
With contributions from Native Instruments, known for offering cutting-edge training and resources, this initiative provides invaluable mentorship opportunities. The documentary highlights the support and tools provided by Native Instruments, whose artist board includes other industry giants like Alicia Keys, Noah “40” Shebib, and Ludwig Goransson.
Saszy Afroshii, a remarkable producer noted for her work with artists like Fave and Tiwa Savage, shares how inspiration can strike amidst the city's hustle. "Opportunities aren’t always easy to find," Saszy notes, emphasizing the importance of women supporting each other in a male-dominated industry. "It's about shifting perceptions and proving that women can excel in production," she adds.
Tems reflects on her own journey in music production, having taught herself through online resources during her economics studies in South Africa. Her story of self-reliance and authenticity resonates throughout the documentary, as it explores her motivations for launching the Leading Vibe Initiative.
The program’s origin was marked by an exclusive announcement from Billboard in August, which showcased Tems' seminar designed to equip around 20 women with direct access to industry experts and comprehensive training. This concept expanded with a similar launch in Nairobi, Kenya, furthering Tems' mission to empower women across Africa.
The insightful perspectives continue with TinyBraz, also known as Purple Halo, who shares a personal struggle with artistic identity and authenticity. Feeling restricted by external expectations, she realized the importance of independence in staying true to oneself. "I wanted to go on my own and find my way," she reflects, embodying the initiative's core message of empowerment.
Gbots completes the trio, sharing her experiences as a unique voice in production. Recognizing the scarcity of female producers in 2022, she established We Are ProducHERS, a community aimed at creating a haven for women in the music industry. "Females should have a safe space," Gbots emphasizes, highlighting the collective's ethos.
The 72 Hours in Lagos documentary delivers a powerful message of perseverance and community, illustrating the transformative impact of getting women together to reshape the music scene in Nigeria and beyond. With aspirations reaching across continents, this project signifies a new dawn for female creatives in the music industry.