Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has made history as the first African female artist to earn a Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America, RIAA.
Tems achieved the milestone through her feature on “Wait For U,” a hit collaboration with American rapper Future and Canadian superstar Drake, after the song surpassed 10 million certified units in the United States.
Music monitoring platform Chart Data announced the achievement on X, revealing that the track has now sold over 11 million units in the US, earning an 11× Platinum certification.
The platform wrote: “US Certifications @RIAA: Future @1future feat. @Drake & @temsbaby, WAIT FOR U 11x Platinum, 11,000,000.”
Released in 2022, “Wait For U” became a global success, debuting at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning widespread acclaim for its fusion of Afrobeats-inspired melodies, hip-hop, and R&B elements.
With the latest recognition, Tems joins Nigerian Afrobeats star Wizkid as one of the few African artists to achieve a RIAA Diamond-certified single in the United States
Wizkid previously made history as the first African artist to receive the honour through his collaboration with Drake on the global hit “One Dance,” which also featured Kyla.
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The achievement further cements Tems’ position as one of Nigeria’s most influential music exports and highlights the growing impact of African artists on the global music industry.
Since gaining international attention with her breakout appearance on Wizkid’s “Essence” in 2020, Tems has continued to expand her global footprint with her unique vocals, songwriting ability, and genre-blending sound.
The singer has earned multiple international accolades, including Grammy Awards, and has collaborated with some of the world’s biggest music stars. Her growing list of achievements has positioned her as a leading figure in the global rise of Afrobeats.
The “Love is a Kingdom” crooner has continued to break new grounds on the global music scene since gaining international prominence with her distinctive vocals and songwriting.
The singer has won multiple Grammy Awards and received nominations for several international music honours, collaborating with some of the world’s biggest music stars.
Fans and music enthusiasts have celebrated the milestone, describing it as another landmark moment for Nigeria and the African music scene.
The feat reinforces the increasing worldwide acceptance of Afrobeats and the ability of Nigerian artists to achieve historic success on international platforms.
NAN
