Nigerian singer Tems delivered a compelling performance of her poignant track “What You Need” on The Tonight Show last night, demonstrating her artistry alongside a live band and backup singers. The stripped-back performance represented a notable TV appearance for the artist, who has progressively climbed through the global music ranks since her debut in 2018. The song, which functions as the lead single from her latest EP Love Is a Kingdom, was released last autumn and sees Tems demonstrating her independence with the direct lyric: “I’m better on my own, you’re better when you’re gone.” Penned and created by Tems in partnership with her frequent creative partner GuiltyBeatz, the song showcases the emotional depth and resonance that has emerged as her hallmark.
A Moving Instance on Late Evening TV
The Tonight Show performance marked a notable achievement in Tems’ rising career path. Her rendition of “What You Need” demonstrated the singing precision and heartfelt authenticity that represent defining characteristics of her artistry. Accompanied by a complete ensemble and supporting vocalists, she controlled the stage with a understated assurance, enabling the song’s inward-looking verses to strike a chord with the audience. The arrangement accentuated the track’s sorrowful elegance whilst showcasing her capacity to convert original tracks into engaging concert renditions that mesmerise viewers internationally.
For American broadcast audiences, the performance offered a look at the world of one of Africa’s most engaging modern musicians. Tems has invested considerable time over recent years consistently developing her international profile, from her standout appearance on Wizkid’s 2021 breakthrough single “Essence” to her following work with Drake and Future. This slot on one of America’s most prestigious evening broadcasts marks another milestone in her ongoing growth beyond African borders, establishing her status as a authentically international recording artist with something significant to express via her music.
The Tale Behind ‘What’s Needed’
“What You Need” emerged as a carefully crafted expression of individual freedom, composed and created by Tems in partnership with her long-standing creative partner GuiltyBeatz. The track’s origin reflects a deliberate creative approach, with both artists pouring their shared creative background into a composition that connects through genuine feeling. Arriving in the autumn as the debut single from Love Is a Kingdom, the song immediately captured listeners’ interest through its unflinching exploration of the end of relationships and self-realisation. The sonic landscape balances minimalist arrangements with Tems’ powerful vocal delivery, making room for the song’s central message to resonate powerfully.
The single arrives as part of Tems’ extensive artistic progression following her 2024 inaugural album Born in the Wild, which itself constituted a result of years spent honing her craft since her 2018 emergence with “Mr Rebel.” Over this period, she has displayed significant development as both a vocalist and songwriter, progressing past feature appearances—including her notable contributions on Wizkid’s “Essence” and the Drake and Future joint project “Wait for U”—to cement herself as a leading figure in current African music. “What You Need” solidifies this transition, establishing her as an artist unafraid to explore personal exposure whilst maintaining her creative autonomy.
Autonomy and Emotional Clarity
At its heart, “What You Need” serves as an anthem of personal autonomy. The line “I’m better on my own, you’re better when you’re gone” embodies the song’s core message: sometimes the most compassionate choice is acknowledging when a partnership has run its course. Rather than remaining in resentment, Tems addresses the subject with poise and clarity, offering listeners a roadmap for navigating their own relationship crossroads with dignity and resolve.
Tems’ Way to Worldwide Success
- Emerged with “Mr Rebel” in 2018, carving out a unique sound in Nigerian music.
- Released first EP For Broken Ears in 2020, succeeded by If Orange Was a Place in 2021.
- Attained major breakthrough with solo hits such as “Damages” (2020) and “Free Mind” (2022).
- Earned worldwide attention through featured appearances on Wizkid’s “Essence” and Drake and Future’s “Wait for U”.
- Established superstar status with debut album Born in the Wild in 2024, preceding present EP Love Is a Kingdom.
Tems’ progression from promising newcomer to established international artist represents a exemplary model in ongoing artistic evolution. A six-year period separated her first release and her inaugural EP, a span she invested to refine her distinctive vocal approach and songwriting sensibility. Rather than pursuing fleeting commercial trends, she built a loyal audience through carefully considered releases and purposeful partnerships. Her features on high-profile tracks featuring renowned African and international stars elevated her standing significantly, yet she has continually emphasised artistic integrity over commercial expediency. This calculated strategy has ultimately cemented her as one of contemporary music’s most respected voices.
Love Is a Kingdom and What Follows
Following the commercial success of her 2024 debut album Born in the Wild, Tems has continued her upward trajectory with the release of Love Is a Kingdom, an EP that highlights her artistic evolution and emotional richness. The project arrived with “What You Need” as its opening single during autumn, instantly setting the groundwork for a more reflective and intimate body of work. The work with established producer GuiltyBeatz reflects Tems’ investment in partnering with reliable creative partners who grasp her artistic direction, producing a cohesive sonic landscape that merges vulnerability paired with undeniable power.
The performance on The Tonight Show served as a powerful showcase for the EP’s emotional core, with Tems’ pared-down arrangement allowing her remarkable vocal ability to come to the fore. Accompanied by live musical accompaniment and vocal harmonies, she delivered a version that went beyond typical television appearances, turning the venue into an intimate listening experience. This strategy emphasises her growth as a creative who refuses to compromise on artistic integrity, even when entertaining large numbers of people watching American TV.
Upcoming Live Performances
Tems’ concert itinerary remains quite limited, with only three confirmed dates confirmed at present. She is set to headline All Points East festival in London in the month of August, one of the season’s leading cultural occasions. Additionally, she has scheduled two performances in Bristol, England, happening in August, suggesting a strong emphasis on UK dates throughout the year.
