Big Lessons Tyla Has Learnt From Global Success of Water

14 January 2024

[Tyla/HapaKenya]

Written by Pharis Kinyua

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South African sensation Tyla stands as a beacon of authenticity, poise, and unbridled talent as far as global music goes.

As the dawn of 2023 heralds a new chapter in her meteoric rise, Tyla finds herself at the forefront of African musicians poised for international stardom, a journey marked by the resounding success of her hit song "Water" and a recent Grammy nomination.

In an exclusive interview with Rolling Stone's The Breakdown, Tyla peels back the layers of her musical journey, offering insights into the creation of "Water," her unique creative process, and the profound sense of responsibility she feels representing her homeland on the global stage.

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Tyla's approach to making music is a testament to her artistic intuition and the free-flowing nature of her creativity. "I love listening to beats, singing random things that come to me, and then listening back and choosing what fits best. After the words just come," she shares. Her process highlights a spontaneous and organic connection to her craft, where the essence of a song is discovered in the rhythm of her thoughts and the melody of her emotions.

"Water," the chart-topping fusion of pop, R&B, and South Africa's amapiano, catapulted Tyla into the global spotlight. The infectious beats, combined with Tyla's soulful vocals, created a summer anthem that resonated far beyond the shores of South Africa.

Produced by Sammy Soso, Rayo, Jack LoMastro, and Olmo Zucca, the song not only captured the essence of a carefree summer but also became a sensation on TikTok, with the #tylawaterchallenge taking the internet by storm.

Despite the seemingly premeditated choreography that accompanied 'Water,' Tyla dispels any notions of meticulous planning.

"With Water, I just wanted a summer song everyone could vibe to and have fun too," she explains. The infectious energy of the track translated seamlessly into dance, sparking a viral trend that showcased Tyla's natural ability to make music that transcends the auditory realm and transforms it into a visual celebration of movement.

The conversation turns reflective as Tyla shares her thoughts on representing South Africa on the global stage. With a sincerity that resonates, she delves into her childhood dreams of seeing a South African pop star standing alongside global icons like Rihanna, Britney Spears, and Michael Jackson.

"I always wanted to see someone from when I was… there," she reflects on the absence of a South African representation in the global pop pantheon during her formative years.

As Tyla journeyed towards her dreams, she grappled with the absence of someone who had paved the way for her. The doubt lingered, as she felt the weight of not having a predecessor who had "opened the door." In a poignant revelation, Tyla articulates her determination to be that person for others, the one who opens doors and inspires the next generation of South African artists to dream beyond borders.

"I'm trying to be that girl that opens the door," Tyla declares, encapsulating a profound sense of responsibility and a commitment to being a trailblazer for those who follow. Her journey, marked by authenticity, creativity, and a deep love for her roots, is not just about personal success; it's about paving the way for a South African presence among the stars, ensuring that the global stage reflects the diverse brilliance of her homeland.

As Tyla continues to ascend the musical ranks, her story becomes more than a narrative of individual achievement; it transforms into a narrative of legacy-building and a promise to be the beacon she once longed to see. With a Grammy nomination and the world at her feet, she is not just chasing stardom; she's redefining it, one note at a time, and in doing so, opening doors for generations of aspiring artists who will follow her remarkable footsteps.