Tyla Laura Seethal, better known as Tyla, has emerged as a dynamic force in the global music scene, tracing her roots from the vibrant cultural tapestry of Johannesburg, South Africa. Her eclectic heritage, blending Xhosa, Zulu, Indian, Mauritian, and Irish influences, infuses her artistry with a unique depth and richness.
Tyla’s musical odyssey commenced through the modern channels of social media, where her talent found expression through Instagram postings and compositions shared with industry insiders. It was through this digital platform that she caught the attention of her first manager, Garth von Glehn, setting the stage for her remarkable journey ahead.
Despite initially embarking on a path in mining engineering, Tyla’s passion for music eventually led her to make the pivotal decision to pursue it full-time. This choice heralded the beginning of her ascent to fame and acclaim.
Her debut single, “Getting Late,” featuring Kooldrink, served as her introduction to the national stage, capturing attention with its infectious rhythm and soulful vibe. The accompanying music video, filmed amidst the challenges of pandemic lockdowns, not only amassed millions of views on YouTube but also earned a prestigious nomination for Music Video of the Year at the South African Music Awards in 2022.
Tyla’s subsequent releases, including “Overdue” and “To Last,” further showcased her evolving talent and laid the groundwork for her global breakthrough. However, it was her 2023 performance at the Dolce & Gabbana afterparty during Milan Fashion Week, coinciding with the release of “Been Thinking,” that marked a significant turning point in her career trajectory.
With chart-topping singles like “Girl Next Door” featuring Ayra Starr and the viral sensation “Water,” Tyla’s musical prowess began to resonate on an international scale. “Water” in particular achieved unprecedented success, soaring into the top 10 charts across multiple countries and etching its name in history as the first song by a South African soloist to grace the US Billboard Hot 100 in over five decades.
Tyla’s magnetic stage presence has captivated audiences worldwide, earning her coveted spots on esteemed platforms such as The Bianca Show in Sweden and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in the United States. The music video for “Water” further solidified her influence, racking up millions of views within days of its release and underscoring her global appeal.
Her collaborations, including the remix of Summer Walker’s “Girls Need Love,” have served to diversify her artistic portfolio and reinforce her standing in the competitive landscape of the music industry.
As Tyla gears up for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, where she’s nominated for Best African Music Performance with “Water,” the world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in her extraordinary journey. With each milestone she achieves, Tyla continues to captivate audiences with her talent, versatility, and unwavering commitment to her craft, cementing her status as a rising star in the global music panorama.
