Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, professionally known as Tems, has become the first African female artist to secure seven entries on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
Her latest song, “What You Need,” from the surprise EP Love Is a Kingdom, debuted at No. 93, marking her second Hot 100 entry of 2026. This ties her with Burna Boy and South African group Seether for the most entries by any African artist.
Tems’ previous Billboard entries include “Wait For U” (No. 1, 2022), “Lift Me Up” (No. 2, 2022), “Essence” (No. 9, 2021), “Fountains” (No. 26, 2021), “Free Mind” (No. 46, 2022), and “Raindance” (No. 89, 2026). Her chart success spans solo songs and global collaborations, including tracks from Born in the Wild and her surprise EP.
Industry projections suggest Tems could soon hold the record for the most Billboard Hot 100 entries by an African artist. J. Cole’s “Bunce Road Blues,” featuring Tems and Future, is expected to debut next week, which would give her an eighth entry.
Tems’ consistency highlights her versatility and global appeal, cementing her as one of Africa’s most successful music exports.
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