Nigerian singer Tems performed a captivating performance of her poignant track “What You Need” on The Tonight Show the previous evening, demonstrating her artistry alongside a live band and supporting vocalists. The stripped-back performance represented a significant television moment for the artist, who has progressively climbed through the international music scene since her debut in 2018. The song, which serves as the lead single from her most recent EP Love Is a Kingdom, originally dropped last autumn and sees Tems asserting her autonomy with the declarative lyric: “I’m better on my own, you’re better when you’re gone.” Written and produced by Tems in partnership with her regular collaborator GuiltyBeatz, the track showcases the emotional depth and resonance that has become her signature style.
A Touching Instance on Late-Night Television
The Tonight Show performance marked a key moment in Tems’ upward career progression. Her rendition of “What You Need” demonstrated the singing precision and heartfelt authenticity that have established themselves as core elements of her creative vision. Flanked by a complete ensemble and backing singers, she controlled the stage with a composed poise, allowing the song’s inward-looking verses to strike a chord with the audience. The musical setting accentuated the track’s poignant charm whilst demonstrating her skill in transforming original tracks into captivating stage shows that mesmerise viewers internationally.
For American TV viewers, the appearance provided a glimpse of the world of one of Africa’s most engaging modern musicians. Tems has devoted the last few years gradually establishing her global presence, from her debut collaboration on Wizkid’s 2021 chart success “Essence” to her later partnerships with Drake and Future. This appearance on one of America’s most prestigious evening broadcasts represents another step in her sustained development beyond African borders, solidifying her status as a genuinely worldwide recording musician with real substance to say through her music.
The Story Behind ‘What You Require’
“What You Need” emerged as a carefully crafted expression of individual freedom, written and produced by Tems alongside her trusted collaborator GuiltyBeatz. The track’s genesis reflects a deliberate creative approach, with both artists pouring their shared creative background into a composition that connects through emotional authenticity. Released last autumn as the first release from Love Is a Kingdom, the song quickly seized listeners’ attention via its unflinching exploration of the end of relationships and personal discovery. The production balances sparse instrumentation with Tems’ commanding vocal performance, making room for the song’s central message to resonate powerfully.
The single comes as part of Tems’ extensive artistic progression after her 2024 first album Born in the Wild, which itself constituted a culmination of years spent developing her artistry since her 2018 breakthrough with “Mr Rebel.” Over this period, she has demonstrated notable progression as both a vocalist and songwriter, transcending feature appearances—such as her memorable turns on Wizkid’s “Essence” and the Drake and Future partnership “Wait for U”—to cement herself as a leading figure in contemporary African music. “What You Need” solidifies this transition, establishing her as an artist willing to embrace personal exposure whilst asserting her artistic independence.
Independence and Emotional Clarity
At its core, “What You Need” operates as an declaration of self-determination. The lyric “I’m better on my own, you’re better when you’re gone” encapsulates the song’s main premise: sometimes the most loving decision is acknowledging when a partnership has run its course. Rather than lingering in resentment, Tems tackles the subject with poise and clarity, giving listeners a guide for traversing their own relationship crossroads with grace and conviction.
Tems’ Route to International Recognition
- Debuted with “Mr Rebel” in 2018, establishing herself a unique sound in Nigerian music.
- Released debut EP For Broken Ears in 2020, succeeded by If Orange Was a Place in 2021.
- Attained major breakthrough with signature tracks including “Damages” (2020) and “Free Mind” (2022).
- Gained worldwide attention through guest spots on Wizkid’s “Essence” and Drake and Future’s “Wait for U”.
- Cemented superstar status with debut album Born in the Wild in 2024, preceding current EP Love Is a Kingdom.
Tems’ progression from breakthrough artist to recognised global performer represents a masterclass in ongoing artistic evolution. Six years elapsed between her debut single and her inaugural EP, a span she utilised to perfect her unique vocal style and compositional craft. Rather than following short-lived market trends, she cultivated a loyal audience through strategically timed releases and calculated features. Her features on prominent songs alongside prominent African and worldwide artists boosted her standing significantly, yet she has continually emphasised artistic integrity over market demands. This measured approach has finally cemented her as one of modern music’s most esteemed figures.
Love represents a Realm and What Comes Next
Following the commercial success of her 2024 first album Born in the Wild, Tems has continued her upward trajectory with the launch of Love Is a Kingdom, an EP that demonstrates her evolving artistry and emotional richness. The work arrived with “What You Need” as its lead track in autumn, instantly setting the groundwork for a more introspective and intimate body of work. The work with long-time producer GuiltyBeatz reflects Tems’ commitment to partnering with trusted creative partners who grasp her creative vision, creating a coherent sonic palette that combines vulnerability alongside undeniable strength.
The performance on The Tonight Show served as a powerful showcase for the EP’s emotional core, with Tems’ pared-down arrangement allowing her distinctive vocal prowess to shine through. Enhanced with live musical accompaniment and vocal harmonies, she delivered a version that transcended conventional broadcast performances, turning the performance space into an intimate listening experience. This strategy highlights her development as a performer who refuses to compromise on authenticity, even when performing for vast audiences on US broadcast television.
Forthcoming Live Events
Tems’ concert itinerary remains relatively selective, with only three confirmed dates currently announced. She is poised to top the bill at All Points East festival in London in the month of August, one of the year’s most celebrated music events. Additionally, she has arranged two shows in Bristol, England, occurring in August, suggesting a concentrated focus on UK dates throughout the year.
