Tems Breaks Billboard Hot 100 Record as ‘What You Need’ Hits 30 Weeks

Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has reportedly set a new record for the longest-charting solo song by an African act on the US Billboard Hot 100, after her hit single What You Need reached its 30th week on the chart.

The song’s latest chart appearance puts it ahead of South African singer Tyla’s Water and Nigerian singer CKay’s Love Nwantiti, which each spent 29 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, according to the report.

What You Need is ranked number 33 on the latest chart, extending its run and strengthening Tems’ presence on one of the music industry’s most closely followed singles charts.

The track previously peaked at number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its continued chart performance reflects sustained audience interest in the song in the United States.

Beyond the Hot 100, What You Need has also reached number one on Billboard’s Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay and Adult R&B Airplay charts, further highlighting its performance across radio formats.

The reported milestone adds to Tems’ growing international profile as a Nigerian singer and songwriter whose music has reached audiences beyond Africa. Her success also underscores the continued visibility of African artists in the US music market.

Tyla’s Water became a major international hit, while CKay’s Love Nwantiti gained global popularity after attracting widespread attention across streaming platforms and social media. Both songs established lengthy runs on the Billboard Hot 100 before What You Need reportedly surpassed their 29-week marks.

With What You Need now at 30 weeks on the chart, Tems has reached a new milestone for a solo African act, based on the figures provided in the report. The song’s position in subsequent chart updates will determine whether it extends the record further.