Tems - What You Need (official video)

Tems - What You Need (Official Video)

Watch the official video for "What You Need" by Nigerian Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Tems.

"What You Need" is track 6 from her surprise new EP "Love Is A Kingdom", released November 21, 2025 via RCA Records / Since 93. The 7-track project blends Tems' signature soulful sound with fresh, creative elements in Afrobeats and R&B, running for a total of 19 minutes 58 seconds.

About The Song - What You Need

"What You Need" stands out as the longest track on the Love Is A Kingdom EP at 3 minutes 52 seconds, and arguably its emotional core. The song showcases Tems' distinct vocal style, deep alto, and vulnerable songwriting.

On this record, Tems confronts unmet expectations in a relationship. She is not pleading; she is stating facts. The lyrics reflect a woman who knows exactly what she brings to the table and is tired of giving more than she receives. Over minimalist piano chords, soft percussion and atmospheric bass, her voice floats with both pain and power.

The production was handled almost entirely by Tems herself, which makes the intimacy even more raw. There are no heavy drums or distractions - just her voice, her truth, and space to breathe.

Love Is A Kingdom EP - The Bigger Picture

Love Is A Kingdom is Tems' first solo project since her debut album Born In The Wild (2024). While that album introduced her to the global stage, this EP brings her back home - spiritually.

The project explores love, power, and spiritual clarity. Tems describes love not as a fairytale but as a kingdom - something you build, protect, and rule with wisdom. Each track is a chapter in that kingdom.

From the soulful opener "First" (2:56) to the confessional "I'm Not Sure" (2:17), the confrontational focus track "Big Daddy" (2:46), the Lagos-inspired "Lagos Love" (3:10), the possessive "Mine" (2:40), and the prayerful closer "Is There a Reason" (2:12), the EP is a complete journey in under 20 minutes.

What You Need Video - Visuals & Meaning

The official video for What You Need perfectly interprets the song's mood. Shot with soft, natural lighting and earthy tones, Tems appears alone, regal, and reflective. The visuals avoid over-the-top glamour and instead focus on emotion, stillness, and presence - which is the true essence of Tems.

Directed with simplicity, the video lets the song speak. Every glance, every slow movement, reinforces the lyric: "I gave you all I had, what more do you need?" It is a visual representation of feminine strength and quiet heartbreak.

Why You Should Watch & Stream

Tems has never been an artist who chases trends. From "Mr Rebel" to "Try Me" to "Essence" and "Higher," she has always chosen honesty over hype. "What You Need" continues that legacy.

For fans of quality Nigerian music, alternative R&B, and soulful Afrobeats, Love Is A Kingdom is a must-have. It is not an album made for TikTok dances; it is an album made for healing, for late-night drives, for journaling, and for remembering your worth.

If you love Sade, Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and FKA Twigs, you will feel at home here. This is music that respects your intelligence and your emotions.

Stream Love Is A Kingdom EP

The full 7-track EP is now available on all platforms via Since 93 / RCA Records. The project is categorized under R&B / Afro R&B / Alt-R&B but defies simple labels.

Listen to the full EP on M2nice, and check the official tracklist below. Don't forget to share your favorite track in the comments - Is it Big Daddy, Lagos Love, or What You Need?

Also check the full EP post here: Tems Love Is A Kingdom EP - Full Tracklist

Genre: R&B / Afro R&B
Label: Since 93 / RCA Records
Duration: 3:52 (Track 6) / 19:58 (Full EP)

Credit: Tems / RCA Records

Image @temssource via Instagram