Tems Makes History as ‘What You Need’ Becomes the Longest-Charting Solo African Song on Billboard Hot 100

Nigerian singer, Temilade Openiyi popularly known as Tems has achieved another major milestone in her music career, giving African music lovers a reason to celebrate. Her song What You Need has set a new record as the longest-charting solo song by an African artist on the prestigious US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Tems wrote What You Need seven years ago while healing from a breakup. Now, on October 21, 2026, the song reached its 30th week on the Billboard Hot 100, making it the longest-charting solo song by an African artist in the chart’s history.

According to a report by MyJoyOnline published on 23rd October, 2026, the song has spent 30 weeks on the chart, surpassing the previous record of 29 weeks held by South African singer Tyla’s Water and Nigerian singer CKay’s Love Nwantiti. The song currently sits at number 33, having reached a peak position of number 29.

In simple terms, this means that What You Need has remained on one of America's most important music charts for longer than any other solo song by an African artist. It is not just about reaching the chart; it is about staying on it and continuing to attract listeners week after week.

##Why This Achievement Matters
Tems’ latest accomplishment is significant because it shows how far African music has travelled beyond the continent. For many years, African artists struggled to gain the same level of international recognition enjoyed by musicians from the United States and Europe. Today, artists such as Tems, Tyla, CKay, Burna Boy and Wizkid are helping to change that story.

The success of What You Need also shows that an African artist can achieve remarkable international success with a solo song, without relying on a collaboration with a major American or European star.

The achievement could encourage more African musicians to believe that their unique sounds, stories and experiences can connect with audiences around the world. It also draws attention to the talent, creativity and hard work coming out of the continent.

Beyond its performance on the Hot 100, What You Need has reached number one on Billboard’s Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay and Adult R&B Airplay charts, further demonstrating its appeal to listeners.

##Fans Have More Reasons to Celebrate
News of Tems’ record has generated excitement among music lovers, particularly fans who have followed her journey from Nigeria to the international music scene. For many, the achievement is another proud moment for Nigerian music and Africa as a whole.

The milestone also places Tems ahead of two songs that previously shared the record, showing the healthy competition among African artists making their mark internationally.

The achievement has given fans plenty to celebrate. It is also an important moment for the wider music industry, as sustained success on a major international chart can attract greater attention to African artists and their work.

##What Comes Next for Tems?
Tems has continued to establish herself as one of Nigeria’s leading musical exports, earning international recognition for her distinctive voice and personal approach to songwriting. Her latest record adds another achievement to that growing career.

For African music, the message is clear: the world is listening, and African artists are increasingly finding ways to keep that attention.

As What You Need continues its chart journey, fans will be watching to see whether Tems can extend her record even further. For now, she has made history, and African music has another milestone worth celebrating.