From “Getting Late” to Global Stardom: The Rise of South African Pop Princess Tyla

Tyla Laura Seethal, known mononymously as Tyla, is a young South African singer and songwriter rapidly rising to international fame. Her family is a mix of Zulu, Indian, Irish, and Mauritian descent. Born in Johannesburg in 2002, her musical journey began early, fueled by a lifelong passion for performing. Her captivating vocals, genre-bending sound, and undeniable charisma have propelled her from school hallways to international stages in just a few short years.

Early Life and Influences

Music has always been Tyla’s calling. Growing up, she was heavily influenced by the vibrant South African soundscape, with afrobeats, amapiano, and kwaito weaving their way into her musical DNA. But her ambitions stretched beyond borders. Inspired by R&B and pop legends like Michael Jackson, Rihanna, and Aaliyah, Tyla started honing her craft early, showcasing her talent online while still attending Edenglen High School. These early digital experiments, featuring original songs and covers on platforms like Instagram, caught the eye of music manager Garth von Glehn, who became instrumental in launching her professional music career.

Debut and Early Success

In 2019, Tyla’s debut single, “Getting Late” (featuring Kooldrink), became a domestic hit. The infectious amapiano beat fused with catchy pop melodies resonated with listeners, establishing her as a rising star in the South African music scene. In 2021, Tyla signed with the prestigious Epic Records, an imprint of Sony Music Entertainment..

Viral Sensation and Global Recognition

The year 2023 marked a pivotal moment in Tyla’s journey. The release of her single “Water” sent shockwaves through the music industry. The song’s smooth vocals, irresistible melody, and captivating music video transcended borders and cultural divides. “Water” surged onto the Top 10 charts in a staggering sixteen countries, including major markets like the United Kingdom and the United States. This viral success propelled Tyla from a South African sensation to a globally recognized pop artist.

In the last quarter of 2023, she got nominated alongside Nigerian stars like Davido, Asake, and Ayra Starr at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards for the inaugural Best African Music Performance category.

On February 5, 2024, she became the first person to win the Afrobeat category with “Water.” Tyla also became the youngest-ever African artist to win a Grammy Award at 22.

Tyla’s success isn’t just about her undeniable vocal talent. She’s a musician who isn’t afraid to experiment. Her music effortlessly blends genres, weaving together pop sensibilities with the heart and soul of South African sounds. This boldness, coupled with her relatable lyrics and infectious energy, resonates with a young generation yearning for fresh sounds and a voice that reflects their experiences.

With a growing fanbase, international recognition, and a unique musical style, Tyla is poised to take the world by storm. Future collaborations, captivating performances, and chart-topping hits are undoubtedly on the horizon for this talented South African artist.