Nigerian stars Tems and Pheelz have hit new career highs, earning RIAA certifications in the United States for multiple songs.
Tems, who recently won her second Grammy, now has four newly certified records. “Free Mind,” from her debut EP For Broken Ears, is now double platinum with over two million units sold. Another track from the same project, “Higher,” is platinum, while “Me & U” and “Found” (featuring Brent Faiyaz) have earned gold certifications.
These achievements bring her total RIAA-certified songs to seven, including “Essence” (with Wizkid), “WAIT FOR U” (with Future and Drake), and “Move” (with Beyoncé and Grace Jones). “WAIT FOR U” is also close to reaching one billion streams on Spotify.
Pheelz, who transitioned from producer to singer, has also received his first RIAA plaque. His viral hit “Finesse”, featuring BNXN, is now gold with over 500,000 units sold in the U.S.
Released in March 2022, the song gained massive traction on social media, leading to high streaming numbers and chart success. It debuted at No. 131 on the Billboard Global 200 and No. 106 on the Global Excl. U.S. charts.
Beyond its U.S. success, “Finesse” is also certified silver in the UK and won a Soundcity MVP Award.
With these new certifications, both Tems and Pheelz continue to expand their global impact, proving Nigerian music’s growing influence worldwide.
