Tyla breaks records as the first solo African artist to reach one billion streams on Spotify with her chart-topping hit 'Water'.
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Tyla's smash hit "Water" has made history again. The South African-born pop star has become the first African solo artist to hit an impressive one billion Spotify streams for her hit song “Water”.
“Water” has been making waves since its release in July 2023, and its impact on the music scene has been undeniable.
The hit single was released as part of Tyla's critically acclaimed self-titled album “Tyla”, which showcased her unique blend of pop, amapiano and R&B. Since the release of the single, the song has seen a lot of success.
By October, “Water” had reached 1 million streams on Spotify, featuring a viral dance challenge that took the world by storm and a remix with US rapper Travis Scott, as well as Marshmello.
“Water” topped various music charts, including the Billboard Hot 100, where it reached No. 7 and went to No. 1 on the US Afrobeats songs chart.
The song also earned Tyla numerous prestigious awards, including a Grammy Award, a Billboard Music Award for Top Afrobeats Song, and an MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats.
The song has since been one of the biggest hits in African music history, now reaching a milestone with one billion Spotify streams.
“We are incredibly proud of Tyla’s historic achievement,” said Phiona Okumu, head of music at Spotify in Africa, in a statement.
“This milestone is a testament to her talent, hard work, and the power of music to transcend borders. Tyla’s success is an inspiration to aspiring artists across Africa and the world, and we are honored to have played a part in her journey,” she added.
The “popiano” sensation joins an elite group of African artists who have also reached a billion streams on Spotify.
Spotify announced on Tuesday that Tems is the first African female artist to reach one billion Spotify streams with the song “Wait for U,” a collaboration with Future and Drake.
Wizkid was the first African artist to hit one billion streams on Spotify with his feature on Drake's 2016 song “One Dance,” and Rema's “Calm Down” remix, featuring Selena Gomez, was the first African artist-led track to reach one billion streams in September 2023.
However, she stands out as the first solo artist to reach this milestone, as others have achieved it through featured collaborations.