Unless you’ve been living under a rock (and hey, no judgement. SA is too much!), we’re sure the words “Make me sweat, make me hotter, Make me lose my breath, make me water” have you dancing a bit.
Mzansi has a new star, and her name is Tyla Laura Seethal. Or you could just call her Tyla. Born on January 30, 2002, in Johannesburg, Tyla, while in high school, began recording original and cover songs on her Instagram, where she was discovered and quickly rose to stardom during the pandemic, capturing the hearts of music lovers worldwide with her soulful voice and amapiano beats.
Tyla’s journey began with her debut single, ‘Getting Late,’ a collaboration with fellow artist Kooldrink that not only dominated the South African charts (and had us in a chokehold on TikTok!) but also caught the attention of Epic Records.
Fast forward to 2023, and Tyla is an international sensation with her hit single ‘Water‘ making history as the first South African artist to grace the US Billboard Hot 100 in over half a century. The last was the late great Bra Hugh Masekela with ‘Grazing In The Grass’ in 1968. It’s even sparked a global viral dance challenge, which Tyla seems to win every time we see her doing it!
Tyla was recently interviewed by fellow South African superstar Trevor Noah for Interview Magazine, where she revealed her plans to become a star. “I was always a huge dreamer. I loved watching the biggest stars on TV and wanted to be there one day. I never wanted to just be a local South African artist. I always wanted to be on the biggest stages, travelling the world.”
As Tyla’s star rises, she finds herself at the centre of a unique debate that transcends borders and delves into the complexities of language and identity. The controversy revolves around the term “coloured,” a label Tyla proudly uses to describe her rich, multicultural heritage.
Americans, unfamiliar with the nuanced history of the term in South Africa, have taken to social media platforms to express their concerns, emphasising the cultural divide and potential challenges Tyla may face in the American market.
The term “coloured” carries a complex history in South Africa, stemming from the days of apartheid when racial categorisations were enforced. Despite the derogatory connotations it may have in the US, it is an officially recognised identity that represents a diverse and resilient community in South Africa.
As Tyla gears up for the release of her self-titled debut album in March 2024 and awaits the outcome of her Grammy nomination, the conversation around her identity is likely to persist. In the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, Tyla’s journey serves as a reminder of the power of art to transcend borders, spark conversations, and challenge preconceived notions of identity. Whether it’s on the Billboard charts or in the hearts of her fans, Tyla continues to make waves, leaving an indelible mark on the global music scene.
This brief is part of our Year That Was 2023 edition. Read the full edition here.
