July 25, (THEWILL) — Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has made history as Africa’s highest-selling female artist, overtaking icons such as Angelique Kidjo, Tiwa Savage, and Yemi Alade, according to verified chart data.
The Grammy-winning star, who burst onto the scene in 2018, has sold over 25 million records globally.
Her breakout collaboration, Essence with Wizkid, earned 5× Platinum status in the United States (5 million units), while her feature on Future and Drake’s Wait For U secured 3× Platinum (3 million units).
Among her solo hits, Free Mind is certified 2× Platinum, and Higher has gone Platinum in the U.S.
Tems also boasts multiple Platinum and Gold certifications across key international markets, including the UK, Canada, and France.
While Tems leads among African female artists, Algeria’s Cheb Khaled remains the continent’s overall best-selling act with 81 million units sold, followed by Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Wizkid with 75 million units.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
