Early Life and Influences (2002 – 2019):
- Born in Johannesburg, South Africa on January 30, 2002, Tyla Laura Seethal hails from a mixed-race background with Zulu, Indian, Mauritian, and Irish ancestry.
- Her musical interest developed early, listening to diverse genres like Afrobeats, amapiano, house, Kwaito, R&B, and pop. Michael Jackson, Rihanna, and Aaliyah were some of her primary musical influences.
- Despite initially studying mining engineering, music remained her true passion. In her last year of high school, she started posting original songs and covers on social media, showcasing her talent and gaining traction.
Breaking into the Industry (2019 – 2021):
- Her debut single, “Getting Late” featuring Kooldrink, released in 2019, garnered significant domestic success, garnering attention within the music industry.
- Tyla’s dedication to songwriting and performing further impressed scouts, leading to her discovery by manager Garth von Glehn and subsequent recording sessions.
- Her talent and potential drew the attention of Epic Records, leading to a record deal in 2021, marking a major step forward in her music career.
Rise to International Acclaim (2022 – Present):
- In 2022, Tyla released her single “Don’t Judge Me,” showcasing her signature blend of amapiano, pop, and R&B influences.
- Her international breakthrough arrived with the release of “Water” in 2023. The song became a global hit, entering the Top 10 in 16 countries and earning recognition for its catchy melody and empowering lyrics.
- “Water” made history as the first solo song by a South African artist to enter the US Billboard Hot 100 in 55 years, highlighting Tyla’s impactful rise.
- Her talent and success garnered numerous nominations, including Best African Music Performance at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, a BRIT Award, a Soul Train Music Award, a MOBO Award, and two South African Music Awards.
- Scheduled for release on March 22, 2024, her self-titled debut album generates much anticipation, promising further exploration of her unique sound and artistic vision.
Beyond the Music:
- Tyla advocates for self-expression and female empowerment, inspiring young female artists and challenging stereotypes within the music industry.
- She actively uses her platform to raise awareness about mental health issues, demonstrating her compassion and social responsibility.
Tyla’s journey is a testament to her talent, dedication, and willingness to embrace diverse influences. With her captivating music and inspiring persona, she continues to pave the way for a bright future in the global music scene.