Tems Becomes First Nigerian Female Artist to Sell Over 10 million Units in the US
Nigerian singer and songwriter Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems.
Nigerian singer and songwriter Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has achieved another milestone in her fast-rising career. On September 30, 2025, Chart Data confirmed that her Grammy-winning single “WAIT FOR U” with Future and Drake has officially sold over 10 million units in the United States, making her the first Nigerian female artist to do so.
This record not only strengthens Tems’ global presence but also sets a new standard for African women in music.
Breaking Records and Inspiring Others
Tems’ success goes beyond sales numbers. She is also the first African female artist to surpass one billion streams on Spotify, showing how African music is gaining strong recognition worldwide. Her journey began in 2018 with her debut single “Mr Rebel”, but her breakthrough came in 2020 after featuring on Wizkid’s global hit “Essence”.
That feature opened doors to Grammy nominations and international collaborations, proving that dedication and consistency can transform dreams into reality.
Lessons for Aspiring Artists
Tems’ rise is not just about talent, but also about perseverance and global vision. Her achievements highlight the importance of:
Consistency – staying true to one’s craft over the years.
Collaboration – working with others to reach new audiences.
Global mindset – embracing international platforms without losing African identity.
As she shared after her recent performance in Kenya: “Kenya! The love has been insane! I love you so much. Till next time.” This shows her commitment to connecting with fans worldwide.
“Tems’ journey reminds us that dreams know no boundaries—when talent meets consistency, the world has no choice but to listen.”
A Trailblazer for African Women in Music
Tems’ ongoing 2025–2026 world tour, with stops in Kenya, Brazil, and the United States, is another step in showcasing African talent to the world. Her story is a reminder that Nigerian and African women can break boundaries in industries traditionally dominated by men.
Tems’ record-breaking success is not just her personal win but a victory for Nigerian and African music. It encourages upcoming artists to keep pushing despite challenges. Her journey proves that with hard work, talent, and the right opportunities, African voices can dominate global stages.
