Nigerian singer and songwriter Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first female African artist to sell over 10 million units of a single in the United States.
The record-breaking feat comes courtesy of her global hit collaboration, “Wait For U” with American rapper Future and Canadian superstar Drake.
According to music monitoring platform Chart Data, the track recently surpassed the 10 million unit sales mark in the U.S., making it eligible for a Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
The achievement not only cements Tems’ place in the history books but also reinforces her status as one of the most successful African artists of her generation.
She is now the second African act ever to hit Diamond status in the U.S., following in the footsteps of Wizkid, whose 2016 collaboration with Drake on “One Dance” crossed the milestone earlier.
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Tems, who first broke into global consciousness with her soulful voice on Wizkid’s 2020 smash hit “Essence”, has since established herself as a powerhouse vocalist and songwriter on the world stage.
With “Wait For U,” she not only earned a Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance but also showcased her ability to transcend genres, seamlessly blending Afrobeats, R&B, and soul into a track that resonated across borders.
Her success extends beyond this landmark hit. Tems’ growing catalogue has consistently performed strongly in the U.S. market.
Songs like “Essence,” “Free Mind,” “Higher,” “Me & U,” and “Found” have all received multiple Platinum, Platinum, and Gold certifications, making her the best-selling female African artist in the United States overall.
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With this record, Tems joins an elite club of global artists who have reached Diamond status in the United States, a rare and coveted achievement in the music industry.
As Tems continues to break boundaries, many believe this is only the beginning. With her expanding influence and growing list of accolades, the “Love Me Jeje” crooner is poised to cement her place as not just a Nigerian or African star but a global music icon.
