Tems’ For Broken Ears Breaks Records with 600 Million Spotify Streams!
Tems is proving once again that she’s a force to be reckoned with. Her debut EP, For Broken Ears, has officially surpassed 600 million streams on Spotify, making it the highest-streamed debut African EP of all time. This milestone also places For Broken Ears among the most successful Nigerian female projects, joining Tiwa Savage’s Celia and Yemi Alade’s Woman of Steel in crossing this remarkable threshold.
Released in September 2020, For Broken Ears was the world’s first deep dive into Tems’ unique sound—a fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, and soul that quickly captivated fans. The project features hit singles like Damages and Free Mind, both of which contributed significantly to its enduring popularity. Free Mind in particular became a slow-burning global hit, spending over a year on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominating streaming charts long after its release.
Tems’ success isn’t just about numbers; it’s about impact. Since For Broken Ears, she has carved out a global reputation as one of the most influential African artists of her generation. Her collaborations with heavyweights like Wizkid (Essence), Drake (Fountains), and Future (Wait for U) have expanded her reach beyond Afrobeats, establishing her as a versatile and boundary-pushing artist.
Her accolades speak volumes. In 2023, Tems became the first Nigerian female artist to win a Grammy when Wait for U, her collaboration with Future and Drake, took home the award for Best Melodic Rap Performance. She made history again in 2025, winning Best African Music Performance for her song Love Me Jeje, becoming the only Nigerian artist with multiple Grammy wins. These achievements highlight not just her exceptional talent but also the increasing global recognition of African music.
Beyond awards and chart dominance, Tems represents a new wave of African artists breaking traditional barriers. She has built her brand on authenticity, consistently delivering music that resonates deeply with fans worldwide. Her rise to stardom is a testament to the power of originality and fearless creativity.
The success of For Broken Ears is more than just a streaming milestone; it’s a cultural moment. The EP has shaped the global perception of Nigerian music, paving the way for more female artists to gain international recognition. It also proves that quality music, when made with heart and soul, has no expiration date.
With her second album rumored to be on the way, there’s no doubt that Tems is just getting started. If For Broken Ears could achieve this level of success, her next chapter is bound to be even bigger. One thing is clear—Tems isn’t just making music; she’s making history.