Watch Tems’ Stripped-Back Late-Night Performance of ‘What You Need’

Music often undergoes a fascinating evolution once it reaches the public ear, and Tems’ “What You Need” is a prime example of a track finding its own path. Originally teased during an Instagram Live session years ago—where the artist famously suggested the song might never be officially released—it eventually became a centerpiece of her November 2025 EP, Love Is a Kingdom.

On Tuesday, March 31, the Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer brought the soulful track to a national audience with a captivating appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

Radiating timeless Hollywood elegance, Tems dominated the stage in a shimmering silver-white gown. Behind a delicate, translucent curtain, her elite band provided a atmospheric backdrop that complemented her commanding presence.

Produced alongside her longtime collaborator GuiltyBeatz, “What You Need” serves as a minimalist, poignant closing chapter to a fractured romance. The lyrics—”Your love is not my lifeline, your love is not my home”—underscore a narrative of reclamation and moving forward from a connection that no longer serves her.

Tems remains a foundational figure in the global explosion of Afrobeats. Her meteoric rise includes a standout contribution to the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack and eight entries on the Billboard Hot 100. She notably secured a No. 1 spot for her collaboration on Future’s 2022 hit “Wait For U” alongside Drake. Her international breakthrough was sparked in 2020 by Wizkid’s “Essence,” a summer anthem that cracked the Billboard Top 10 and earned her an initial Grammy nod.

With eight Grammy nominations to her name, Tems has secured two wins: Best African Music Performance for “Love Me JeJe” and Best Melodic Rap Performance for “Wait For U.”

Beyond the accolades, Tems maintains a grounded and optimistic philosophy. In a 2025 cover story, she shared her enthusiasm for the unknown, stating, “Every day brings something new, and I find that incredibly exciting. I’m always curious to see how the day will unfold.” She credits her stability to a morning ritual of self-care and prayer, affirming a positive outlook regardless of what the day brings.

Watch Tems’ stunning late-night rendition of “What You Need” below:

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