Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has officially become the best-selling female African artiste, marking a major milestone in her career. Since launching her music journey in 2018, Tems has surpassed notable industry figures such as Angélique Kidjo, Tiwa Savage, and Yemi Alade to claim the top spot, according to chart data. The Grammy-winning artiste has sold over 25 million units globally, making her the most commercially successful female artist from Africa to date.
Her impressive list of certifications includes “Essence” (with Wizkid), which is 5× Platinum in the United States, representing 5 million units sold. “Wait For U” (with Future and Drake) has earned 3× Platinum status in the U.S. (3 million units), while “Free Mind” is certified 2× Platinum (2 million units), and “Higher” has gone Platinum as well (1 million units). Beyond the U.S., Tems has secured numerous Platinum and Gold certifications in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Switzerland, New Zealand, Australia, Belgium, and South Africa.
Despite her rapid rise, Algeria’s Cheb Khaled remains the best-selling African artiste overall, with 81 million units sold, followed by Nigerian Afrobeats star Wizkid with 75 million units. Tems’ achievements in just a few years underscore her global appeal and solidify her place as one of Africa’s most influential music exports.
