In the cutthroat world of music, hitting that elusive hit single can feel like a pipe dream to many artists. However, for South African singer Tyla (real name Tyla Laura Seethal), the ascent to fame has been nothing short of meteoric. Her breakout hit ‘Water’ has taken TikTok by storm, becoming a global hit that peaked in the Top 10 charts in the UK, US, and New Zealand. The single was also a winning song for Tyla, earning her the prestigious Best African Music Performance award at the 2024 Grammys.
Tyla’s success has been hard-earned. For five years, she has been honing her craft in her native South Africa, where the musical genre amapiano has been gaining traction for the past decade. With her unique blend of Aaliyah-style R&B and the lively rhythms of South African music, Tyla has coined the term “popiano” to describe her sound. Her music has caught the attention of global stars like Becky G and Tems, cementing her status as a global phenomenon.
However, Tyla’s rise to fame hasn’t been without setbacks. An undisclosed injury forced her to cancel her appearance at Coachella and a world tour. Despite the setback, Tyla remains determined to succeed as an artist. Her debut album “Safer” showcases her musical range, carrying a collection of peppy tunes with introspective lyrics to touching ballads. The album is a testament to Tyla’s faith and tenacity to succeed in a highly competitive industry.
Tyla’s parents may have hoped that she would outgrow her dreams of becoming a successful artist, but her determination to succeed knows no bounds. As Tyla attests: “I’m very determined… If I want something, I make sure I get it.” Her soaring career trajectory has propelled her to be South Africa’s brightest new star, demonstrating that amapiano has outgrown its ‘moment’ status and is a true global movement. Tyla’s success story is a reminder that with talent, hard work, and determination, anything is possible.
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