Interview with Tyla
Tyla is a South African singer, songwriter, and rising global pop sensation best known for her breakout hit “Water,” which became a viral phenomenon and marked a major moment for African music on the international stage. Born and raised in Johannesburg, Tyla developed a passion for music and performance at a young age, drawing inspiration from artists like Rihanna, Aaliyah, and local legends such as Brenda Fassie. Blending Amapiano, pop, and R&B, she has carved out a signature sound she calls “Popiano,” showcasing both her South African roots and her modern global appeal.
Since bursting onto the scene, Tyla has quickly become one of the most exciting new voices in music, captivating audiences with her infectious melodies, distinctive style, and confident stage presence. Her music and fashion reflect a bold fusion of tradition and innovation, making her a cultural ambassador for the new wave of African artistry. With a debut album on the horizon and growing international acclaim, Tyla is poised to become a lasting force in global pop music.
Q: First of all, congratulations on all the success with “Water.” Did you expect it to blow up the way it did?
Tyla: Thank you! Honestly, no — not to that level. I knew it had something special, and I felt really confident in the sound and the energy we created. But to see people dancing to it all over the world, making it viral, and just showing so much love… it’s been overwhelming in the best way.
Q: One of the most exciting things about you is how you’re bringing Amapiano to a global audience. Was that intentional?
Tyla: Definitely. I’m so proud to be South African, and Amapiano is such a unique and beautiful sound that comes from home. It was important to me to blend that with pop and R&B so more people could discover it. It’s not just a genre, it’s a vibe, a culture. I wanted people to feel that energy, whether they knew the name or not.
Q: How would you describe your sound right now?
Tyla: I think of it as “Popiano,” which is this mix of pop, R&B, and Amapiano. But I also love experimenting. I’m always trying to stay rooted in where I come from while pushing boundaries. I love melodies that are catchy but have emotion, and I’m big on production that makes you want to move.
Q: Who were some of your biggest musical inspirations growing up?
Tyla: A lot of different artists, honestly. I loved Rihanna, Aaliyah, Beyoncé — strong women with such presence. Locally, artists like Brenda Fassie were huge for me. And I’ve always been into rhythm-heavy music, so anything with a strong beat would get my attention.
Q: How has your life changed since going viral?
Tyla: Whew, it’s been nonstop! I’m traveling a lot, meeting people I used to watch on TV, doing interviews, shoots, shows… it’s exciting but also a little surreal. I’m trying to stay grounded, keep my circle close, and focus on the music. That’s what got me here.
Q: What’s something people don’t know about you yet?
Tyla: I’m kind of a nerd! [Laughs] I love learning — I was really into school and science. I also used to do my own nails and style my clothes from a young age. I’ve always been very hands-on with everything I do.
Q: You’ve been called a fashion icon in the making. How do you approach your style?
Tyla: Fashion is like an extension of my music. It’s a way to express myself without words. I love mixing high fashion with street style, and I always want to represent where I’m from — whether it’s through colors, textures, or silhouettes. I want to look like the future but still feel like home.
Q: What’s your favorite part about performing live?
Tyla: The energy from the crowd. Nothing beats that connection. When people sing along or do the dance with me — especially the Water dance — I get chills every time. It reminds me why I do this.
Q: What message do you want young girls, especially from South Africa or the continent, to take from your journey?
Tyla: That anything is possible. You don’t have to be from a big city or come from a lot of money to chase your dreams. I’m just a girl from Joburg who had a vision. If you work hard, stay consistent, and believe in your voice, the world can’t ignore you forever.
Q: What’s next for you? An album, maybe?
Tyla: Yes! The album is coming, and I’m so excited. It’s been a journey putting it together — I want it to show all the different sides of me. It’ll have Amapiano, of course, but also some surprises. I’m pushing myself creatively and just trusting the process.
Q: Final question — when you look ahead five years from now, where do you see yourself?
Tyla: Hmm, I see myself still making music that I love, hopefully inspiring more African girls to go big. I want to tour the world, build something lasting, and just keep growing — as an artist, as a woman, and as someone who’s proud to represent Africa on the world stage.
