TEMS breaks TYLAS’s Billboard record for longest-charting solo African song on Hot 100

Thursday, October 22, 2026 -Nigerian singer and songwriter Temilade Openiyi, widely known as Tems, has achieved a historic milestone, setting a new record for the longest-charting solo song by an African act on the United States Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Her hit single "What You Need" has logged its 30th consecutive week on the prestigious chart, currently sitting at number 33. With this feat, the track officially surpasses previous solo longevity benchmarks set by South African pop star Tyla’s "Water" and Afrobeats artist CKay’s "Love Nwantiti," both of which recorded 29 weeks on the chart.

"What You Need" previously peaked at number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track has also achieved significant commercial success across other major platforms, reaching number one on Billboard's Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay and Adult R&B Airplay charts.