Tyla has made history as the first African solo artist to achieve one billion Spotify streams with her 2023 hit single “Water,” Spotify confirmed on Wednesday (Feb. 19). This accomplishment follows the song’s successful run after its July 28, 2023 release via FAX and Epic Records, preceding her debut self-titled album. “Water,” featuring remixes with Travis Scott and Marshmello, reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped several charts, including U.S. Afrobeats Songs, World Digital Song Sales, Dance/Mix Show Airplay, and Rhythmic Airplay. The song’s accolades include the inaugural best African music performance award at the 2024 Grammys, a Billboard Music Award for top Afrobeats song, and an MTV Video Music Award for best Afrobeats video.
Phiona Okumu, head of music at Spotify in Africa, expressed pride in Tyla’s achievement, calling it a testament to her talent, hard work, and the unifying power of music. She emphasized Tyla’s success as an inspiration to artists globally and highlighted Spotify’s role in her journey.
Tyla’s entry into Spotify’s Billions Club places her among a select group of African artists who have reached this milestone.
Congratulations to @Tyllaaaaaaa, the newest member of @Spotify's BILLIONS CLUB pic.twitter.com/zH3scXhqty
— Tyla Club (@TylaClub) February 19, 2025
Tems recently became the first African female artist to achieve this with Future’s “Wait for U” (which also features Drake). Wizkid was the first African artist to reach one billion streams with Drake’s “One Dance” (featuring Wizkid and Kyla), and Rema’s “Calm Down” (remix featuring Selena Gomez) was the first African artist-led track to hit this mark.
