Tems Becomes First Female African Artist to Sell Over 10 Million Units in U.S.

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Nigerian singer and songwriter, Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has made history by becoming the first female African artist to sell over 10 million units of a single in the United States.

This remarkable milestone was achieved through her global hit collaboration with American rapper Future and Canadian superstar Drake on the track “Wait For U.”

According to music chart monitoring platform, Chart Data, the song recently crossed the 10 million unit sales mark in the U.S., making it eligible for the prestigious Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) Diamond certification.

The achievement cements Tems’ status as one of Africa’s biggest music exports. With this record, she joins fellow Nigerian star Wizkid as only the second African artist to reach the 10 million unit mark. Wizkid previously achieved the feat with his collaboration with Drake on the global smash hit “One Dance.”

Tems’ unique sound and soulful voice have placed her at the forefront of a new wave of African artists breaking barriers on the international stage.

 The “Love Me Jeje” crooner is now officially the best-selling female African artist in the U.S. Her catalogue of hit songs continues to perform strongly, with tracks like “Essence,” her collaboration with Wizkid and Justin Bieber, “Free Mind,” “Higher,” “Me & U,” and “Found” earning multiple Gold, Platinum, and multi-Platinum certifications in the U.S.

Beyond her chart success, Tems has also gained global recognition for her artistry. She has received Grammy nominations, won the Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance for “Wait For U” in 2023, and contributed to Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” album and Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up,” which was featured on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. These collaborations have further solidified her status as a trailblazer and global star.

Tems’ journey to the top has inspired many young Africans, especially women, who see her as a symbol of resilience and creativity. 

Her success highlights the growing influence of African music on the world stage and underscores the importance of representation in a global industry once dominated by Western acts.

Music analysts say her Diamond-eligible hit is not only a win for Tems but also for Afrobeats as a genre. “Tems has shown that African artists can stand shoulder to shoulder with the biggest names in the world,” one industry insider said. “This milestone will open more doors for African women in the global music scene.”

With her continued rise and dominance, Tems is rewriting history and setting new standards for African music on the global stage. Her achievements mark a significant moment in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, proving that African talent is not only shaping the present but also defining the future of global music.

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