Tyla Wins Best African Music Performance at the Grammy Awards
South African sensation Tyla made headlines at the 2024 Grammy Awards, clinching the Best African Music Performance award for her chart-topping hit, ‘Water.’ The rising star outshone formidable competitors, including Nigeria’s Davido, Asake, and Burna Boy. It even made it to the top 10 in 16 different countries, including the UK and the US. Its global success was highlighted by the song’s historic entry into the US Billboard Hot 100, a milestone for a South African soloist not achieved in 55 years.
The Grammy Awards took place at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, and Tyla was presented with her award there. It must have been such an exciting moment for her!
Tyla’s Rise to Fame
Tyla, whose full name is Tyla Laura Seethal, was born on January 30, 2002, in Johannesburg, South Africa. She signed with Epic Records in 2021 after her first single, ‘Getting Late’ featuring Kooldrink, became a hit in her home country.
But it was her 2023 single ‘Water’ that really made her famous worldwide. The song became a huge success and made it into the top ten charts in many countries, including the US and the UK. It was even the first song by a South African solo artist to enter the US Billboard Hot 100 in 55 years! That’s a big deal!
Tyla’s debut album, also called ‘Tyla,’ is set to be released on March 22, 2024. I can’t wait to hear it!
Tyla’s Early Life and Career
Tyla was born in Johannesburg to a family of mixed heritage, including Zulu, Indian, Mauritian, and Irish roots. She finished high school in 2019 and was even the head of culture at her school. While she was still in school, she started posting her original songs and covers on Instagram.
Her talent didn’t go unnoticed. Tyla was discovered by her first manager, Garth von Glehn, who helped her record her first songs. She was studying mining engineering, but she decided to pursue her music career full-time instead. And it looks like it was the right decision!
Tyla’s Musical Journey
Tyla released her debut single, ‘Getting Late,’ in 2019, right after finishing high school. The song became a hit in South Africa and got millions of views on YouTube. She then signed a recording contract with Epic Records in the US and released more singles like ‘Overdue’ and ‘To Last.’
In 2023, Tyla’s career really took off. She performed at the Dolce & Gabbana afterparty during Milan Fashion Week and released her single ‘Been Thinking,’ which became a chart-topping hit. She even went on tour with Chris Brown!
But it was her song ‘Water’ that made her a global sensation. The song went viral on TikTok and reached the top 10 charts in many countries. Tyla performed the song on TV shows like The Bianca Show and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
She also collaborated with other artists, like Ayra Starr and Summer Walker, and released more singles from her upcoming album.
Tyla’s Influences and Discography
Tyla has been influenced by many great artists, including Michael Jackson, Aaliyah, Rihanna, Britney Spears, Drake, Cassie, and Wizkid. She dreams of becoming the first global pop star from Africa, and with her talent, she just might achieve that!
Her debut studio album, ‘Tyla,’ is set to be released on March 22, 2024. I’m sure it’s going to be amazing!
