Nigerian international music sensation Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming Africa’s best-selling female artist, surpassing some of the continent’s most celebrated female stars, including Angelique Kidjo, Tiwa Savage, and Yemi Alade.
According to updated music certification data, Tems has now sold over 25 million units worldwide, a feat that cements her position as one of Africa’s most successful music exports.
Tems’ rise to this record-breaking achievement is credited to a string of globally acclaimed hits and collaborations. Some of her most notable certifications include:
“Essence” (with Wizkid & Justin Bieber) – 5x Platinum in the USA (over 5 million units)
“Wait For U” (with Future & Drake) – 3x Platinum in the USA (over 3 million units)
“Free Mind” – 2x Platinum in the USA (over 2 million units)
“Higher” – Platinum in the USA (1 million units)
In addition to her US certifications, Tems also holds multiple Platinum and Gold certifications across major music markets, including the UK, Canada, France, Australia, Belgium, South Africa, Switzerland, and New Zealand.
While Tems now holds the crown for Africa’s highest-selling female artist, she is still behind the continent’s overall best-selling artists. Algerian music legend Cheb Khaled leads the chart with 81 million units sold, while Wizkid follows closely with 75 million units. Tems, however, remains the highest-ranking African female artist in global music sales, a significant feat for a singer who launched her professional career just seven years ago in 2018.
Tems, who won a Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance for “Wait For U” in 2023, has continuously redefined Afrobeats and R&B on the international stage. Her music has been featured in major Hollywood soundtracks, including Marvel’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” where she performed a tribute to Chadwick Boseman.
Music analysts have credited Tems’ success to her soulful voice, unique songwriting style, and international collaborations with global superstars like Beyoncé, Rihanna, Drake, and Future.
With a growing fan base and increasing demand for Afrobeats globally, Tems is expected to embark on another world tour later in 2025. Industry watchers predict her forthcoming projects could push her sales figures even higher, possibly placing her among Africa’s top five best-selling artists of all time.