Johannesburg-born singer Tyla has been making waves worldwide with her single Water, which entered the charts in 17 different countries including reaching the top 10 of the UK Singles Chart. She is also the youngest South African and the first South African soloist in 55 years to enter the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, following Hugh Masekela’s Grazing in the Grass in 1968. Water’s accompanying music video, released early this month, garnered 3 million views on YouTube in just three days.
“Amapiano means ‘The pianos’, a reference to the lounge keys usually weaved into its skipping four-to-the-floor rhythms. Tyla… is a master of taking its glossiest elements and imbuing them with the sensuality of American R&B”
vevo
Her blend of Afrobeats, Amapiano, pop and R&B has captured worldwide attention and that of Epic Records, with whom she signed a recording contract through a joint venture with Fax Records in the US.
Have you missed her? If so, you can catch up here:
Her music celebrates her African heritage:
- Tyla’s song “Water” features lyrics in Zulu, one of the official languages of South Africa.
- Her song “In My Dreams” is a collaboration with South African rapper Nasty C.
- Her music video for “Water” features traditional African dancers and costumes.
She is a global ambassador for African music:
- Tyla has performed at major music festivals around the world, including Coachella and Lollapalooza.
- She has already been featured in major publications such as Billboard and Rolling Stone.
- She has collaborated with artists from all over the world, including American rapper Tyga and British singer Charli XCX.
She’s an inspiration to young Africans:
- Tyla is only 22 years old, but she has already achieved a lot in her career.
- Her success inspires many young people in the African diaspora who dream of a career in music.
- She is also a vocal advocate for social justice issues, and she uses her platform to speak out against racism and inequality.
She is a versatile artist:
- Tyla is not just a singer. She is also a songwriter and dancer.
- She has co-written all of the songs on her debut album. (She apparently ‘designs’ her songs in the shower)
- She is also a talented choreographer, and she has created the choreography for many of her music videos.
She is passionate about her music and her culture:
- Tyla has said that she wants to use her music to “change the narrative” about Africa.
- She is passionate about promoting African culture and heritage to the world.
- She is also a strong advocate for social justice and equality in Africa.
- She cites as her music inspiration other African stars like Tems.
She is a rising star:
- Tyla is only 22 years old, but she has already accomplished a huge amount in her career.
- She has been nominated for several awards, including the BET Award for Best New International Act.
- She has a large and growing fan base around the world.
- Her voice is like liquid gold – oozing sensuality and romance – with an edge of naughtiness.
Here’s Tyla talking with RealLyfe Productions:
Follow Tyla
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tyla
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tyla_
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tylauraa
