Tems has made history as the first African female artist to reach one billion Spotify streams with her feature on Future’s “WAIT FOR U,” which also includes Drake, Spotify confirmed. The track, which samples Tems’ “Higher” from her 2020 EP For Broken Ears, appeared on Future’s 2022 Billboard 200 chart-topping album I NEVER LIKED YOU. “WAIT FOR U” achieved No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Tems’ first chart-topper across all genres, as well as topping the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Rhythmic Airplay charts. It received Grammy nominations for best melodic rap performance and best rap song in 2023, winning the former and giving Tems her first Grammy. She recently secured her second Grammy win with “Love Me JeJe” for best African music performance.
Tems’ success continues in 2025. She recently became a club partner and part of the ownership group of San Diego Football Club through her company, The Leading Vibe. She is also set to headline Billboard Presents THE STAGE at SXSW London on June 5th at the Troxy in Shoreditch, London.
“WAIT FOR U” is Drake’s 21st entry into Spotify’s Billions Club, following his 2016 hit “One Dance” (featuring Wizkid and Kyla), which was the first song to surpass one billion Spotify streams. It is also Future’s fourth entry. This milestone follows Rema’s “Calm Down” (remix featuring Selena Gomez) becoming the first African artist-led track to reach one billion Spotify streams in September 2023.
