Tems Becomes First Female African Artist to Earn RIAA Diamond Certification

Tems has become the first female Africaartist to be credited on an RIAA Diamond-certified single. The achievement came through Future’s hit song “WAIT FOR U,” featuring Drake and Tems. 

The RIAA confirmed the certification as part of its latest list of award updates. Released in April 2022, Future single became a hit. The track includes Tems’ 2020 song “Higher,” The song gave Future his first chart-topping single as a lead artist. 

The Diamond certification is one of the RIAA’s highest recognitions. It is awarded only after a song reaches at least 10 million certified units in the United States. 

Photo: Instagram

Tems’ gained wider recognition with her 2019 single “Try Me” before achieving global success through Wizkid’s “Essence.” She has since collaborated with artists including Drake, Beyoncé, Future, and Brent Faiyaz. 

Read Also: Tems Launches South Africa Edition of Leading Vibe Initiative

Her success is not just tied to streaming numbers alone. She won several international awards. She has a Grammy in the Best Melodic Rap Performance category and also four BET Awards. Her talent has earned her praise from different artists including Rihanna. 

Photo: Instagram

While several African musicians have received multi Platinum certifications in the United States, Diamond status remains rare. Tems becoming the first African woman to earn the certification. 

The RIAA Diamond certification shows how African artists continue to break barriers. As Tem’s international profile grows, this latest milestone will inspire more female artists to aim for global success.