Nigerian stars Wizkid and Tems have achieved what many thought impossible, dominating a global chart and becoming the only African artists on Apple Music’s Top 500 Streamed Songs list.
The announcement on Sunday sent shockwaves through the music world and underscored the unstoppable rise of Afrobeats.
Wizkid, Tems make Apple Music history
Wizkid and Tems didn’t just make the list; they shattered expectations. Wizkid’s 2016 collaboration with Drake and Kyla, “One Dance,” soared to number 6, making him the only African artist in the top 10.
As Apple Music marked its 10th anniversary, the platform declared, “Wizkid and Tems are the only African artists in Apple Music’s Top 500 Most Streamed Songs Of All Time list”.
Tems, meanwhile, claimed her place at number 42 with “Wait For U,” a Grammy-winning track with Future and Drake. This feat also made her the highest-ranked female African artist on the chart.
“Tems has also been in the spotlight for her impactful contributions to women in music,” one report noted, highlighting her ongoing influence beyond streaming numbers.
Apple Music’s Top 500: Wizkid, Tems lead African charge
Let’s break down the numbers. The top of the Apple Music chart is dominated by Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You,” The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights,” and Drake’s “God’s Plan.” Yet, Wizkid’s “One Dance” stands tall among these global hits, a testament to his enduring appeal.
Tems’s “Wait For U” brought her international acclaim and reinforced the power of African voices on the world stage.
Wizkid’s impact is undeniable. “His collaboration with Drake and Kyla, ‘One Dance,’ secured a spot among the ten most-streamed songs ever on Apple Music,” a news outlet explained.
Tems’s rise is equally impressive, with her unique sound resonating with millions worldwide.
Wizkid, Tems make Apple Music Top 500 Streamed Songs List: Global acclaim
Fans and industry leaders are celebrating this achievement. “Only Wizkid and Tems are the only African Acts on the Apple Music’s top 500 most streamed songs ever,” one social media user declared. Their success is more than a personal milestone—it’s a win for African music and a clear signal that the world is listening.