Tems makes history as first African female artist with US Diamond-certified single

Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has achieved another major career milestone by becoming the first African female artist to receive a Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

The historic recognition came through “Wait For U,” her hit collaboration with American rapper Future and Canadian superstar Drake.

The song earned the prestigious certification after surpassing 10 million certified units sold in the United States.

According to music analytics platform Chart Data, Wait For U has now exceeded 11 million units in U.S. sales, cementing its place among the country’s biggest commercial hits.

The achievement marks another significant moment for Tems, further strengthening her position as one of Africa’s most successful global music stars and highlighting the growing influence of African artists on the international stage.

The platform wrote: “US Certifications (@RIAA): Future (@1future) Feat. @Drake & @temsbaby, WAIT FOR U 11x Platinum (11,000,000) ”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Tems now joins Wizkid as the only African artist to earn a Diamond single in the US.

Wizkid was the first African artist to receive a RIAA Diamond Certification through his collaboration with Drake on ‘One Dance’.

The achievement marks another major milestone in Tems’ international career and further underscores the growing global recognition of Nigerian music.

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 have taken to social media to celebrate the latest achievement, describing it as another proud moment for Nigeria and the African music industry.

Many said the feat reflects the increasing global acceptance of Afrobeats and the growing influence of Nigerian artistes on the international stage. (NAN)

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