Nigerian singer Tems performed a compelling performance of her emotional ballad “What You Need” on The Tonight Show last night, showcasing her artistry with a live ensemble and backup singers. The stripped-back performance represented a significant television moment for the artist, who has progressively climbed through the international music scene since her 2018 debut. The song, which functions as the opening track from her latest EP Love Is a Kingdom, was released last autumn and sees Tems asserting her independence with the direct lyric: “I’m better on my own, you’re better when you’re gone.” Written and produced by Tems in partnership with her frequent creative partner GuiltyBeatz, the song highlights the depth and emotional resonance that has become her hallmark.
A Poignant Instance on Late-Night TV
The Tonight Show appearance marked a key moment in Tems’ upward career progression. Her performance of “What You Need” showcased the singing precision and heartfelt authenticity that represent core elements of her artistry. Flanked by a full live band and additional vocalists, she controlled the stage with a quiet confidence, enabling the song’s introspective lyrics to connect with the audience. The arrangement accentuated the track’s melancholic beauty whilst showcasing her capacity to convert original tracks into compelling live performances that captivate viewers across the Atlantic.
For American broadcast audiences, the show gave a window into the world of one of Africa’s most engaging contemporary artists. Tems has devoted the last few years gradually establishing her international profile, from her debut collaboration on Wizkid’s 2021 hit “Essence” to her following work with Drake and Future. This performance on one of America’s most prestigious evening broadcasts represents another progression in her ongoing growth beyond African borders, cementing her status as a truly global music creator with something meaningful to communicate through her music.
The History Behind ‘What You Need’
“What You Need” stood as a thoughtfully constructed statement of individual freedom, composed and created by Tems alongside her long-standing creative partner GuiltyBeatz. The track’s genesis reflects a intentional artistic approach, with both artists channelling their collective experience into a piece that resonates with genuine feeling. Released last 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 personal discovery. The sonic landscape balances minimalist arrangements with Tems’ commanding vocal delivery, creating space for the song’s central message to land with maximum impact.
The single emerges as part of Tems’ extensive artistic progression after her 2024 debut album Born in the Wild, which itself marked a product of years spent developing her artistry since her 2018 breakthrough with “Mr Rebel.” During this span, she has displayed significant development as both a singer and composer, moving beyond 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 major presence in modern African music. “What You Need” solidifies this transformation, presenting her as an artist willing to embrace personal exposure whilst demonstrating her artistic independence.
Self-reliance and Mental Clarity
At its core, “What You Need” functions as an declaration of personal autonomy. The lyric “I’m better on my own, you’re better when you’re gone” captures the song’s core message: sometimes the most loving decision is acknowledging when a relationship has run its course. Rather than dwelling in bitterness, Tems tackles the subject with poise and clarity, giving listeners a roadmap for traversing their own personal turning points with dignity and resolve.
Tems’ Path to Global Acclaim
- Launched with “Mr Rebel” in 2018, positioning herself a recognisable presence in Nigerian music.
- Released first EP For Broken Ears in 2020, followed by If Orange Was a Place in 2021.
- Attained commercial success with solo hits such as “Damages” (2020) and “Free Mind” (2022).
- Earned global recognition through collaborations on Wizkid’s “Essence” and Drake and Future’s “Wait for U”.
- Cemented prominence with first album Born in the Wild in 2024, preceding latest EP Love Is a Kingdom.
Tems’ progression from breakthrough artist to acclaimed worldwide musician exemplifies a showcase in sustained artistic development. A six-year period separated her debut single and her inaugural EP, a period she used to develop her unique vocal style and creative vision. Rather than pursuing fleeting commercial trends, she built a dedicated fanbase through carefully considered releases and calculated features. Her features on prominent songs featuring prominent African and worldwide artists elevated her prominence greatly, yet she has repeatedly championed genuine creativity over commercial expediency. This deliberate method has finally cemented her as among today’s most acclaimed musical artists.
Love Is a Realm and What Follows
Following the strong commercial performance of her 2024 debut album Born in the Wild, Tems has maintained her upward momentum with the unveiling of Love Is a Kingdom, an EP that demonstrates her developing artistry and emotional richness. The work arrived with “What You Need” as its opening single during autumn, promptly establishing the tone for a increasingly introspective and intimate collection. The work with longtime producer GuiltyBeatz underscores Tems’ investment in partnering with established creative collaborators who understand her artistic vision, creating a coherent sonic palette that balances vulnerability paired with undeniable power.
The performance on The Tonight Show represented a powerful showcase for the EP’s emotional core, with Tems’ minimalist approach allowing her remarkable vocal ability to come to the fore. Supported by live instruments and backing singers, she delivered a version that went beyond standard TV performances, converting the performance space into an intimate listening experience. This approach highlights her growth as a creative who will not sacrifice on authenticity, even when playing to large numbers of people watching American TV.
Forthcoming Live Events
Tems’ touring schedule remains fairly restricted, with only three locked-in performances confirmed at present. She is scheduled to perform at All Points East festival in London in the month of August, one of the year’s most celebrated cultural occasions. Additionally, she has lined up two performances in Bristol, England, happening in August, pointing to a deliberate concentration on UK dates throughout the year.
