Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, professionally known as Tems, has set a new record on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart for the longest-charting solo track by an African artist.
Her hit single “What You Need” has maintained its spot on the Hot 100 for another week, bringing its total run to 30 weeks.
With this milestone, the track surpasses South African pop star Tyla’s “Water” and Afrobeats artist CKay’s “Love Nwantiti,” both of which previously held the record at 29 weeks.
‘What You Need’ is charting at number 33 this week.
Months following its initial release, the Nigerian artist’s slow-burn track continues to gain traction across the United States, extending an impressive chart performance that already stands as her longest-running solo entry on the Hot 100.
As the single nears its 30th week on the chart, it is on the brink of overtaking the previous milestone of 29 weeks jointly held by Tyla’s “Water” and CKay’s “Love Nwantiti.”
The track reached a peak position of number 29 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Additionally, the single climbed to the number one spot on both Billboard’s Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay and Adult R&B Airplay charts.
Released in November 2025 as part of her seven-track EP Love Is a Kingdom, “What You Need” carries the quiet confidence that has become central to Tems’ artistic identity.
Built around her distinctive vocals and a stripped-back, R&B-influenced arrangement, the track explores emotional clarity and the decision to walk away from a relationship that no longer serves her.
Tems co-produced the song alongside GuiltyBeatz, maintaining the key creative partnership that has continually defined her sound.
Backstory…
Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, has also built an international profile through collaborations with artists including Drake, Future and Wizkid.
Her appearance on Future and Drake’s “Wait for U” earned her a US Billboard Hot 100 No. 1, while her solo releases have continued to strengthen her presence in the American market
