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 ensemble and backup singers. The stripped-back performance marked a significant television moment for the artist, who has progressively climbed through the global music ranks since her 2018 debut. The song, which functions as the lead single from her most recent EP Love Is a Kingdom, originally dropped the previous autumn and sees Tems demonstrating her autonomy 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 highlights the depth and emotional resonance that has become her hallmark.
A Moving Instance on Late Evening Television
The Tonight Show visit marked a notable achievement in Tems’ rising career path. Her interpretation of “What You Need” demonstrated the vocal control and heartfelt authenticity that have become defining characteristics of her artistic expression. Flanked by a backing band and supporting vocalists, she dominated the stage with a understated assurance, letting the song’s inward-looking verses to connect with the audience. The orchestration highlighted the track’s sorrowful elegance whilst demonstrating her capacity to convert original tracks into compelling live performances that mesmerise viewers on both sides of the Atlantic.
For American broadcast audiences, the appearance gave a look at the world of one of Africa’s most compelling modern musicians. Tems has devoted the last few years consistently developing her international profile, from her breakthrough feature on Wizkid’s 2021 hit “Essence” to her subsequent collaborations with Drake and Future. This appearance on one of America’s most renowned late-night platforms constitutes another step in her continued expansion beyond African borders, establishing her status as a authentically international recording musician with real substance to express via her music.
The Tale Behind ‘What’s Needed’
“The Piece Called What You Need” emerged as a thoughtfully constructed statement of personal liberation, written and produced by Tems alongside her long-standing creative partner GuiltyBeatz. The track’s genesis speaks to a intentional artistic approach, with both artists pouring their collective experience into a composition that connects through genuine feeling. Released last autumn as the debut single from Love Is a Kingdom, the song quickly seized listeners’ interest through its unflinching exploration of relationship dissolution and personal discovery. The production balances minimalist arrangements with Tems’ commanding vocal delivery, creating space for the song’s central message to resonate powerfully.
The single emerges as part of Tems’ extensive artistic progression following her 2024 inaugural album Born in the Wild, which itself represented a culmination of years spent developing her artistry since her 2018 debut with “Mr Rebel.” During this span, she has shown significant development as both a singer and composer, transcending feature appearances—including her notable contributions on Wizkid’s “Essence” and the Drake and Future partnership “Wait for U”—to position herself as a major presence in contemporary African music. “What You Need” reinforces this transition, presenting her as an artist willing to embrace vulnerability whilst maintaining her artistic independence.
Autonomy and Emotional Clarity
At its heart, “What You Need” serves as an anthem of self-determination. The line “I’m better on my own, you’re better when you’re gone” captures the song’s main premise: sometimes the most compassionate choice is recognising when a relationship has reached its end. Rather than dwelling in resentment, Tems approaches the subject with clarity and composure, giving listeners a guide for navigating their own relationship crossroads with grace and conviction.
Tems’ Route to International Recognition
- Debuted with “Mr Rebel” in 2018, carving out a recognisable presence in Nigerian music.
- Released debut EP For Broken Ears in 2020, followed by If Orange Was a Place in 2021.
- Secured commercial success with standout singles including “Damages” (2020) and “Free Mind” (2022).
- Built worldwide attention through guest spots on Wizkid’s “Essence” and Drake and Future’s “Wait for U”.
- Cemented star credentials with first album Born in the Wild in 2024, preceding present EP Love Is a Kingdom.
Tems’ progression from promising newcomer to recognised global performer exemplifies a masterclass in consistent creative growth. Six years elapsed between her debut single and her first EP release, a span she used to develop her unique vocal style and creative vision. Rather than following temporary commercial fads, she cultivated a loyal audience through strategically timed releases and strategic collaborations. Her appearances on major releases featuring renowned African and international stars elevated her profile considerably, yet she has continually emphasised genuine creativity over market demands. This deliberate method has ultimately positioned her as one of today’s most acclaimed musical artists.
Love Is a Realm and What Follows
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 showcases her evolving artistry and emotional richness. The project arrived with “What You Need” as its lead track last autumn, immediately establishing the foundation for a increasingly introspective and intimate project. The work with established producer GuiltyBeatz reflects Tems’ commitment to working with established creative collaborators who comprehend her creative vision, producing a unified sonic landscape that merges vulnerability with undeniable power.
The performance on The Tonight Show functioned as a compelling platform for the EP’s emotional centre, with Tems’ pared-down arrangement allowing her remarkable vocal ability to take centre stage. Enhanced with live instruments and backing singers, she performed a version that transcended standard TV performances, converting the stage into an close personal experience. This strategy emphasises her growth as a creative who refuses to compromise on authenticity, even when playing to large numbers of people watching American TV.
Forthcoming Live Performances
Tems’ touring schedule remains relatively selective, with only three scheduled shows currently announced. She is scheduled to perform at All Points East festival in London during August, one of the summer’s most prestigious music events. Additionally, she has lined up two shows in Bristol, England, happening in August, suggesting a concentrated focus on UK dates for the remainder of the year.
