Nigerian singer Tems delivered a compelling performance of her poignant track “What You Need” on The Tonight Show last night, demonstrating her artistry with a live band and supporting vocalists. The stripped-back performance marked a notable TV appearance for the artist, who has progressively climbed through the global music ranks since her debut in 2018. The track, which functions as the lead single from her most recent EP Love Is a Kingdom, was released the previous 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 track showcases the emotional depth and resonance that has become her hallmark.
A Touching Instance on Late-Night Television
The Tonight Show performance marked a significant milestone in Tems’ ascendant career trajectory. Her interpretation of “What You Need” demonstrated the technical mastery and heartfelt authenticity that have become defining characteristics of her artistic expression. Flanked by a complete ensemble and backing singers, she commanded the stage with a quiet confidence, allowing the song’s reflective words to connect with the audience. The arrangement highlighted the track’s poignant charm whilst showcasing her skill in transforming recorded versions into captivating stage shows that enthrall viewers across the Atlantic.
For American broadcast audiences, the appearance gave a window into the world of one of Africa’s most engaging current creative talents. Tems has spent the past several years consistently developing her global presence, from her debut collaboration on Wizkid’s 2021 hit “Essence” to her following work with Drake and Future. This slot on one of America’s most renowned late-night platforms marks another step in her ongoing growth beyond African borders, establishing her status as a genuinely worldwide recording musician with real substance to say through her music.
The History Behind ‘What You Need’
“What You Need” stood as a carefully crafted statement of individual freedom, written and produced by Tems alongside her trusted collaborator GuiltyBeatz. The track’s origin speaks to a intentional artistic process, with both artists channelling their collective experience into a piece that connects through emotional authenticity. Arriving in the autumn as the first release from Love Is a Kingdom, the song quickly seized listeners’ attention via its candid examination of the end of relationships and personal discovery. The production balances sparse instrumentation with Tems’ powerful vocal delivery, creating space for the song’s core theme to resonate powerfully.
The single arrives as part of Tems’ extensive artistic progression following her 2024 first album Born in the Wild, which itself represented a result of years spent refining her skills since her 2018 breakthrough with “Mr Rebel.” Over this period, she has shown 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 collaboration “Wait for U”—to cement herself as a major presence in contemporary African music. “What You Need” solidifies this shift, establishing her as an artist unafraid to explore personal exposure whilst demonstrating her artistic independence.
Autonomy and Mental Clarity
At its heart, “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” encapsulates the song’s main premise: sometimes the most compassionate choice is acknowledging when a partnership has reached its end. Rather than dwelling in bitterness, Tems approaches 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
- Debuted with “Mr Rebel” in 2018, positioning herself a recognisable presence in Nigerian music.
- Released first 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).
- Earned international prominence through guest spots on Wizkid’s “Essence” and Drake and Future’s “Wait for U”.
- Established prominence with debut album Born in the Wild in 2024, preceding latest EP Love Is a Kingdom.
Tems’ progression from emerging talent to established international artist demonstrates a exemplary model in sustained artistic development. Six years separated her debut single and her inaugural EP, a timeframe she used to refine her unique vocal style and songwriting sensibility. Rather than following temporary commercial fads, she developed a loyal audience through carefully considered releases and strategic collaborations. Her presence on high-profile tracks featuring prominent African and worldwide artists elevated her prominence greatly, yet she has consistently prioritised creative authenticity over commercial expediency. This deliberate method has finally positioned her as one of contemporary music’s most respected voices.
Love represents a Realm and What Follows
Following the commercial success of her 2024 first album Born in the Wild, Tems has maintained her upward momentum with the unveiling of Love Is a Kingdom, an EP that highlights her evolving artistry and emotional depth. The EP arrived with “What You Need” as its lead single in autumn, instantly setting the groundwork for a more reflective and intimate body of work. The partnership with established producer GuiltyBeatz reflects Tems’ commitment to partnering with established creative collaborators who grasp her artistic vision, creating a coherent sonic palette that merges vulnerability paired with unmistakable strength.
The performance on The Tonight Show represented a striking demonstration for the EP’s emotional centre, with Tems’ minimalist approach allowing her signature vocal talent to shine through. Enhanced with live instrumentation and backing vocalists, she presented a version that transcended standard TV performances, converting the stage into an immersive sonic moment. This method emphasises her evolution as an artist who will not sacrifice on genuine expression, even when entertaining large numbers of people watching American TV.
Forthcoming Live Performances
Tems’ touring schedule stays fairly restricted, with only three confirmed dates currently announced. She is set to headline All Points East festival in London during August, one of the year’s most celebrated cultural occasions. Additionally, she has scheduled two performances in Bristol, England, happening in August, suggesting a deliberate concentration on UK dates for the remainder of the year.
