Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has reached another major milestone in her career after becoming the first female African artiste to earn a Diamond-certified single in the United States.
The achievement follows the Diamond certification of “Wait For U,” her collaboration with American rappers Future and Drake, by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The certification is awarded to songs that have sold more than 10 million units in the United States.
Music analytics platform Chart Data revealed that the Grammy-winning song has now exceeded 11 million units sold in the U.S., further underlining its commercial success.
Announcing the achievement on X, the platform wrote:
“US Certifications (@RIAA): Future (@1future) Feat. @Drake & @temsbaby, WAIT FOR U 11x Platinum (11,000,000).
“The latest recognition makes Tems the first female African musician to receive an RIAA Diamond certification, adding another historic accomplishment to her growing list of international achievements.
Another milestone for African music
The achievement also means Tems joins Wizkid as the only African artistes to earn a Diamond-certified single in the United States.
Wizkid became the first African artiste to reach the milestone through his contribution to Drake’s global hit, “One Dance.
“Tems’ latest success reflects the continued rise of Afrobeats on the global stage, with Nigerian musicians breaking international records and expanding the influence of African music across major markets.
The Diamond certification further strengthens Tems’ reputation as one of Africa’s leading contemporary music stars, following a string of international awards, chart success and collaborations with some of the biggest names in the global music industry.