Tems Creates History with Seventh Billboard Hot 100 Entry
Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in the global music industry. The talented artist has become the first African female musician to secure seven entries on the prestigious U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking a significant moment for African music representation on the world stage.
A Historic Debut and Growing Legacy
The latest achievement came this week when Tems' track What You Need debuted at number 93 on the Billboard Hot 100. This placement pushed her total appearances on the chart to seven, creating a new record for African female artists. The accomplishment places Tems in elite company alongside fellow Nigerian superstar Burna Boy and South African rock band Seether, who also boast seven entries each on the chart.
This achievement represents more than just numbers – it signifies the growing influence and recognition of African artists in global music markets. Tems' consistent presence on one of the world's most competitive music charts demonstrates both her artistic excellence and the expanding reach of Nigerian music internationally.
A Journey of Groundbreaking Firsts
Tems' path to this historic moment has been marked by several firsts for African artists. Four years ago, she made history by becoming the first African musician to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 with Wait For U, her collaboration with Future and Drake. That breakthrough moment announced her arrival on the global stage and showcased the potential of African music to dominate mainstream charts.
Her groundbreaking achievements extend beyond chart success. In July 2025, Tems became the first African artist to perform at the FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show, sharing the stage with international stars like Doja Cat and Coldplay before a global audience of football and music fans.
Fan Reactions and Industry Impact
Social media platforms have been flooded with excitement and celebration from fans worldwide. Many have praised Tems as Nigeria's true international superstar, while others have highlighted how her success represents a new era for African music on global platforms.
Key fan reactions include:
- Celebrations of her consistent chart performance
- Recognition of her growing influence in international music spaces
- Anticipation for her upcoming projects and potential chart entries
Looking Ahead: More Records on the Horizon
Tems' current tie with Burna Boy and Seether for the most Billboard Hot 100 entries among African artists may be short-lived. Industry projections suggest that Bunce Road Blues, her collaboration with J. Cole and Future, is expected to enter the Billboard Hot 100 in the coming week. If this happens, Tems will move ahead of her peers to hold the record outright for the most entries by an African artist.
This potential achievement would further solidify her position as one of Africa's most successful and influential musical exports. Her steady rise reflects not only her individual talent but also the increasing visibility and acceptance of African musical styles in global entertainment spaces.
The Bigger Picture: African Music's Global Ascent
Tems' success story is part of a larger narrative about African music's growing prominence worldwide. Her achievements, along with those of other African artists, demonstrate how Nigerian and African sounds are resonating with international audiences and breaking through traditional barriers in the global music industry.
The consistent chart performance of African artists like Tems represents a significant shift in how global music markets perceive and embrace African creativity. It signals new opportunities for African musicians and suggests that the continent's musical influence will continue to expand in coming years.
