Tyla can’t wait to showcase her rap skills. The rising star has been exploring new musical territories since her breakthrough hit.
The 23-year-old South African singer – who got her big break after her 2023 hit ‘Water’ went viral on TikTok – has revealed she’s made “full-on rap songs” that she can’t wait to share with her fans. The track “Water” catapulted her to international fame and established her as one of the most promising new artists.
“I never really studied specific artists. Whatever songs, performances, music videos I liked, I just obsessed over those individual things. It was very broad. Pop stars, rappers, R’n’B singers,” she told Nylon of her “broad” musical influences. “It started with the sound of music I wanted to make, because I knew that I wanted to do something completely different from what I’ve heard before. I was making anything and everything. I have full-on rap songs. Full-on R’n’B. Full-on amapiano. I played a lot and found a mixture that felt like me.” Amapiano, a subgenre originating from South Africa, has been gaining recognition internationally with its distinctive sound blending deep house, jazz and lounge music.
Asked what can be expected from her rapping, she replied: “I’m not going to lie, it’s hot. I’m excited to show people that I’m more diverse than they think. I want to take my time with my artistry and give whatever feels right for that moment. So one day, you’re going to get that Tyla rap song.” Her confidence in exploring different genres has been noted by music critics as a refreshing approach in the industry.
Tyla is constantly working on new music and is excited to show how she has evolved as a person and artist. Her debut self-titled album has been praised for its innovative blend of sounds and cultural influences.
“Every day I can be in the studio, I’m there. I’m working on the new project currently. I’m super excited because even though I love my debut album [2024’s ‘Tyla‘], I feel like a totally different person. Everything that has happened forced me to grow very fast. I’m also the type of person that gets bored very easily. So I’m excited to see this new version of me and hear what it sounds like and just have fun with it — just bring back fun in music,” she said. Her dedication to her craft is evident in the long hours she spends perfecting her sound and experimenting with new ideas.
The artist’s journey from South African music scene to global recognition highlights the increasing influence of African music on the world stage. Her unique approach to blending genres has created a distinctive sound that has resonated with listeners across different markets.
Music industry observers have noted Tyla’s ability to seamlessly incorporate elements from various musical traditions while maintaining an authentic voice. This versatility positions her well for longevity in an industry that values innovation and evolution.
Her upcoming rap material is expected to showcase yet another dimension of her artistry, potentially appealing to new audiences. Industry insiders suggest this move could open doors to exciting collaborations and further expand her musical repertoire.
Beyond her musical talents, Tyla has also gained attention for her distinctive style and visual aesthetic. Her music videos and performances display a creative vision that complements her sonic explorations, creating a cohesive artistic identity.
Despite her rising international profile, Tyla remains connected to her South African roots, often incorporating cultural elements that pay homage to her heritage. This authentic approach has endeared her to fans who appreciate artists who stay true to their origins.
As she prepares to unveil this new chapter in her career, anticipation builds among fans and industry professionals alike. Her willingness to experiment across genres demonstrates a confidence and artistic vision that suggests Tyla will continue to evolve and surprise audiences with each new release.
The singer’s exploration of rap represents just one facet of her multidimensional talent, promising an exciting future as she continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a global artist from Africa in today’s music landscape.
