Tems delivered a standout performance of “Me & U” at the Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening Ceremony in Chicago on 18 June, stepping onto a stage that also featured Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, John Legend, and more. The Grammy-winning Nigerian singer performed in a striking crimson gown, marking one of the most talked-about moments of the historic event. Barack Obama has previously featured her songs “Vibe Out” and “Love Me Jeje” on his annual playlists.
The ceremony itself was a stacked cultural moment. Stevie Wonder closed the night with “Higher Ground,” Bono delivered a surprise serenade of “Michelle, ma belle” directed at Michelle Obama, and multiple generations of US leadership were present in the same room, including Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Joe Biden alongside their first ladies.
Tems, however, brought a quieter but commanding presence to the stage. Performing at the Center’s John Lewis Plaza, she appeared in a sculptural crimson gown that matched the gravity of the occasion. Her performance of “Me & U” leaned into her signature-restrained intensity, carrying a soft but firm emotional weight across the open-air venue.
Before her set, she addressed the audience briefly, saying: “I’m so blessed and so honoured to be here. This one is to you, everyone in this room and to Mr. and Mrs. Obama and all the family.” Her connection to the Obama household is already well established, with “Vibe Out” making the 2022 playlist and “Love Me Jeje” appearing in 2024.
The night also featured performances from Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Common, U2’s Bono and The Edge, Marc Anthony, Bruce Springsteen, Eddie Vedder, and The Roots, before Stevie Wonder closed the event. Michelle Obama’s speech on democracy and belonging became one of the most discussed moments online following the ceremony.
Watch Tems performance below
