On September 30, 2025, Chart Data announced on X that Temilade Openiyi, known as Tems, became the first Nigerian woman to have a single sell over 10 million units in the U.S.
Her collaboration “WAIT FOR U” with Future and Drake hit this mark.
Grammy-Winning Track
“WAIT FOR U” earned Tems a Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance, boosting her global fame. She also became the first African woman to surpass one billion Spotify streams.
Rise to Stardom
Tems gained worldwide attention in 2020 with her feature on Wizkid’s “Essence,” a Billboard Hot 100 hit with Grammy nominations. She debuted in 2018 with “Mr Rebel.”
Global Tour
Tems is on her 2025–2026 world tour, which began September 28 and runs through November 15, with performances in Nairobi, Salvador, and Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium.
After her Kenya show, she posted on X, “The love was unreal! See you again!”
Industry Trailblazer
Wizkid set a similar record in 2022 with “One Dance” hitting 10 million U.S. sales.
Tems’ achievement, alongside BET, NAACP, and Soul Train awards, solidifies her as a pioneer for African women in music.
Why It Matters
Tems’ record-breaking success highlights the growing influence of Nigerian artists globally, especially women in Afrobeats.
What’s Next
As her tour continues, Tems is set to further shape the music industry in 2025 with her unique voice and storytelling.
Armenian Dram
Ghana Cedi
Gambian Dalasi
Guinea Franc
Nigerian Naira
CFA Franc BEAC
