Tyla

Early Life and Background

Born Tyla Laura Seethal on January 30, 2002, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Tyla's heritage is as diverse as her music. She is of Zulu, Indian, Mauritian, and Irish descent, a rich cultural tapestry that has influenced her sound and artistic expression. Growing up in a vibrant and multicultural environment, Tyla was exposed to a variety of musical genres and traditions from a young age, setting the stage for her eclectic musical style.

Education and Early Recognition

During her high school years at Edenglen High School, Tyla took on the role of head of culture, showcasing her leadership skills and passion for the arts. She matriculated in 2019, already demonstrating a keen interest in music and performance. This period of her life was crucial in shaping her understanding of culture and its impact on music.

Discovery and First Steps in Music

Tyla's musical journey took a significant turn when she was discovered by Garth von Glehn, who saw the potential in her unique voice and style. He organized her first recording sessions, marking the beginning of her professional music career. Her debut single, "Getting Late," released in 2019, quickly gained attention for its captivating sound and visuals, earning millions of views on YouTube and a nomination for Music Video of the Year at the 28th South African Music Awards in 2022.

Signing with Epic Records

In May 2021, Tyla's growing success led her to sign a recording contract with Epic Records, through a joint venture with Fax Records in the United States. This partnership was a significant milestone, opening up new opportunities for her to reach a global audience. She followed up this achievement with the release of singles "Overdue" in October 2021 and "To Last" in November 2022, further establishing her presence in the music industry.

Breakthrough with "Water"

Tyla's international acclaim skyrocketed with the release of "Water" in July 2023. The song, a blend of Western pop and amapiano influences, became a top-ten hit in sixteen countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Its music video, released on October 7, 2023, amassed 3 million views on YouTube within three days, showcasing Tyla's widespread appeal and the global resonance of her music.

Historic GRAMMY Win

At the 2024 GRAMMYs, Tyla made history by winning the first-ever award for 'Best African Music Performance' with her hit song "Water." This victory was not only a personal achievement but also a moment of recognition for African music on the global stage. Competing against established artists like Davido, Ayra Starr, and Burna Boy, Tyla's win highlighted the Recording Academy's commitment to showcasing diverse musical talents from across the African continent.