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QUEEN OF RADIO: Tems Scores Her Fourth No. 1 on U.S. Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay Chart With ‘What You Need’

Author: EIIAFRICA eNews
Last updated: Wednesday, 1 July 2026

Subheadline: Dethroning the heavyweights, the Nigerian icon solidifies her legendary status across American airwaves.

There is no stopping Tems.

The singer-songwriter has officially secured her fourth career No. 1 single on Billboard’s Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart with her soulful, breakout hit "What You Need."

The track made a massive leap on the airplay charts, dethroning Rick Ross and French Montana to take the coveted peak position as the most-played song on urban radio nationwide.

An Unstoppable Hit Streak

This achievement marks Tems’ fourth time leading the pack on U.S. radio, adding to an elite, historic run of chart-toppers that includes:

  • "Essence" (with Wizkid)
  • "Wait For U" (with Future and Drake)
  • "Free Mind"
  • "What You Need" (New)

Taken from her critically acclaimed project Love Is a Kingdom, "What You Need" has been on a relentless upward trajectory since it first hit the airplay charts earlier this year. Co-written and co-produced by Tems alongside elite producer GuiltyBeatz, the track’s minimalist production and raw emotional vulnerability have deeply resonated with global audiences.

Dominating Multiple Formats

The song isn't just winning on mainstream urban radio; it is concurrently exploding on the Adult R&B Airplay chart, pulling in over 13 million weekly listeners. At the same time, her massive collaboration "Raindance" with British rap titan Dave is scaling the rhythmic and rap charts.

With "What You Need" hitting No. 1, Tems continues to prove that her distinct, genre-defying sound doesn't just fit into global music spaces—it commands them.

"Built on emotional boundaries and self-preservation, 'What You Need' proves that Tems finds her ultimate strength in artistic restraint."

PROMO / SOCIAL PLUG:

Tems just keeps winning! Where does "What You Need" rank on your favorite Tems tracks list? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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