In a move that further cements her status as one of the most influential artists in global music, Nigerian superstar Tems has made history by reaching a staggering 11 million records sold in the United States alone. Alongside this remarkable achievement, the multi-talented singer, songwriter, and producer has earned seven RIAA-certified songs, solidifying her place as an undisputed force in the international music scene.
The milestone follows an exciting year for Tems, whose collaborations with global artists like Beyoncé, Future, Drake, and Wizkid have set the global charts ablaze. Her rise to international stardom has been nothing short of meteoric, and her latest achievement proves that her influence continues to grow across multiple genres.
Tems’ hit single, “Me & U,” has now been certified Gold, marking a major step in her success in the U.S. market. Alongside it, “Found,” her collaboration with American artist Brent Faiyaz, and “MOVE,” a powerhouse collaboration with Beyoncé and Grace Jones, have also achieved Gold certification.
“These accomplishments are a testament to the work we’ve put in over the years,” Tems shared in an exclusive interview. “I’ve always believed in the music, and it’s a blessing to see the world embracing it the way they have. I’m grateful for all the support from my fans, the incredible artists I’ve had the privilege to work with, and my team.”
While Gold certifications reflect impressive success, it’s Tems’ Platinum and multi-Platinum accolades that truly set her apart. Her fan-favorite track “Free Mind” has gone 2× Platinum, a testament to its enduring popularity and cultural impact. Moreover, “Higher” has been certified Platinum, marking a new peak in her ability to connect with listeners across the globe.
But perhaps her most significant accomplishment is the immense success of her collaborations. Tems’ partnership with Future and Drake on “WAIT FOR U” has been nothing short of historic, earning a remarkable 3× Platinum certification in the U.S. The track’s chart-topping success contributed to her Grammy Award win in 2023, where she took home the Best Melodic Rap Performance trophy for the song.
“I’ve always wanted to push the boundaries of what we can achieve, not just as an artist, but as part of the global conversation,” Tems said, reflecting on the success of “WAIT FOR U.” “It’s a huge honor to have worked with Future and Drake on this song, and to see it resonate the way it has with people around the world is truly humbling.”
Her biggest hit, however, remains the smash single “Essence,” her collaboration with Nigerian Afrobeats giant Wizkid. With an astounding 4× Platinum certification, “Essence” has transcended borders, becoming a global anthem that introduced millions of listeners to the sounds of Afrobeats. The track not only received immense radio play but also earned multiple award nominations and solidified Tems as a leading voice in the global music scene.
Reflecting on her career trajectory, Tems recalled the moment “Essence” began to take off. “It was surreal,” she recalled. “We knew we had something special, but the way people around the world embraced it was just beyond anything we could have imagined. It was truly a game-changer.”
Since her breakthrough in 2019 with her debut single “Try Me,” Tems has continuously shattered expectations and redefined what it means to be a Nigerian artist in the international spotlight. She first gained recognition after her feature on Wizkid’s “Essence,” which became a chart-topping success and earned critical acclaim worldwide. The song not only elevated her status but also marked a turning point in the global recognition of Afrobeats, a genre that has become a dominant force in music today.
Tems’ collaboration with the American artist Future on “WAIT FOR U” further solidified her place as an artist who seamlessly blends genres, and the success of the track earned her a Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance, making her one of the few African artists to receive the prestigious honor.
Born in Lagos on June 11, 1995, Tems, whose full name is Temilade Openiyi, began her musical journey in 2018 with a clear vision of where she wanted to go. Despite facing challenges along the way, she remained committed to her craft, drawing inspiration from a blend of R&B, soul, and Afrobeats.
Her collaborations with some of the biggest names in music have not only demonstrated her versatility but also amplified her presence on the global stage. Tems has worked with icons like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Drake, and her music resonates with listeners across various demographics and cultures.
Looking ahead, Tems is set to continue her reign as one of the most influential African artists in the world. Her ability to blend genres and create music that transcends cultural boundaries has already secured her legacy in the global music industry, and her latest milestones only serve to strengthen her position.
With plans for more music, collaborations, and tours on the horizon, Tems is showing no signs of slowing down. The world has only seen a glimpse of what she is capable of, and with each record-breaking achievement, she continues to make her mark as a true global superstar.
“Reaching this point feels incredible,” Tems expressed with enthusiasm. “But the journey isn’t over. We have so much more to do, and I’m excited to take this ride with my fans. They’ve been with me every step of the way, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
Tems’ impact on Afrobeats and global music cannot be overstated. With seven RIAA-certified hits, including Gold, Platinum, and multi-Platinum certifications, she has proven that her artistry knows no bounds. As she continues to break records and set new standards, one thing is certain: the world is just beginning to witness the true power of Tems.
