Tems sets Billboard Hot 100 record for African solo artist

Nigerian singer Tems has established a new record for the longest-charting solo song by an African artist on the US Billboard Hot 100. Her single, ‘What You Need’, has spent 30 weeks on the chart, surpassing the previous 29-week records held by South African artist Tyla with ‘Water’ and Nigerian singer CKay with ‘Love Nwantiti’.

Currently positioned at number 33, ‘What You Need’ previously reached a peak of number 29. The track has also achieved number one status on both the Billboard Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay and Adult R&B Airplay charts. The song’s longevity is notable as its 30 weeks on the chart have been spread across 37 total chart weeks, indicating a sustained presence rather than a single continuous run.

Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, has seen significant global success following her early career features on hits like Wizkid’s ‘Essence’. Her recent achievements include a Grammy for Best African Music Performance and her debut album, ‘Born in the Wild’, which reached number 56 on the Billboard 200.