Early Life and Background
Tyla Laura Seethal was born on January 30, 2002, in Johannesburg, South Africa, into a culturally rich family with Indian, Zulu, Mauritian, and Irish heritage. Growing up in a musically inclined household, she was exposed to a variety of musical influences ranging from American R&B to local South African sounds, which shaped her artistic development.
She attended Edenglen High School and began sharing her music through social media during her teenage years. Tyla’s early work, including her debut single "Getting Late" released in 2019, garnered national attention and laid the foundation for her international career.
Musical Career and Rise to Fame
Tyla’s career breakthrough came with the 2023 release of "Water," a single that achieved viral status due to its catchy beat and a dance challenge that swept TikTok and other social media platforms globally. This song marked a historic moment as she became the first South African solo artist in 55 years to enter the US Billboard Hot 100.
Her style, labeled "popiano," creatively merges pop music with amapiano rhythms, a genre rooted in South African jazz and house music. With support from Epic Records, Tyla released her debut album and a deluxe edition, both of which received critical acclaim and commercial success, further establishing her as a leading figure in African music.
Achievements and Cultural Impact
At just 23 years old, Tyla has amassed an impressive list of accolades including the inaugural Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance, multiple MTV Video Music Awards, BET Awards, and MTV Europe Music Awards. She is recognized as the youngest African artist to win a Grammy, underscoring her influence and talent.
Beyond awards, Tyla has played a pivotal role in popularizing African music and dance styles on the global stage. The viral "Water" dance challenge introduced millions worldwide to South African culture, demonstrating her impact not only as a musician but also as a cultural ambassador.