South African sensation Tyla is the cover star of British Vogue’s March 2025 issue, cementing her status as one of the most exciting voices in global music. Dubbed “music’s most intoxicating new mononym,” the 23-year-old singer sat down with journalist Funmi Fetto to discuss her journey from Johannesburg to worldwide fame.
A Dream Turned Reality
“You know when you’ve always felt like you’re destined for something? That you’re going to make it one day? But then when it actually happens… It doesn’t feel real,” Tyla tells Vogue, reflecting on her rapid ascent.
Growing up in Johannesburg as the second of four siblings, Tyla was deeply influenced by her Zulu, Indian, Mauritian, and Irish heritage. Music was always a part of her life, with icons like Michael Jackson, Aaliyah, Beyoncé, and Britney Spears shaping her sound. But it was Rihanna who truly inspired her: “Coming from somewhere outside the States, I really looked up to her,” she says. “She made me realize there is another way.”
From Instagram to Stardom
Tyla’s journey to fame began when she started posting singing videos on Instagram. In 2019, photographer and producer Garth von Glehn took notice, leading her to meet her manager, Colin Gayle. “I recorded my first song that same day,” she recalls.
Her breakout moment came with the viral success of Getting Late, proving to her parents that she was serious about a music career. In 2021, she signed with Epic Records, officially stepping onto the global stage.
Life Beyond South Africa
Though Tyla now spends more time in New York, adjusting to life outside Johannesburg has been challenging. “Sometimes I just miss having the sun and a yard and all my family around,” she admits. Her younger sister Sydney, however, is fully embracing the perks of Tyla’s fame, accompanying her to events.
Tyla’s star power reached new heights in 2024 when she performed at Pharrell Williams’ Prelude to the Paris Olympics event. Later that year, she made a stunning Met Gala debut in a sand-colored Balmain gown. Designer Olivier Rousteing praised her as a boundary-pusher in music, much like himself in fashion.
The Fashion Icon in the Making
Collaborating with designers like fellow South African Thebe Magugu, Tyla enjoys experimenting with her looks. “She takes my collections and completely transforms them,” Magugu says. For Tyla, fashion is an extension of her artistry: “Playing dress-up is one of the most fun parts of being in the industry.”
Controversy & Cultural Representation
Tyla has also faced her share of controversy. At the 2024 MTV VMAs, she made headlines for handing her Best Afrobeats award to Lil Nas X, leading to criticism. “Those awards are very heavy!” she clarifies.
She also voiced frustration over African artists being grouped under the Afrobeats category, despite amapiano’s global rise. “Afrobeats broke down many doors, but African music is more than just one genre,” she explains.
The Future of Africa’s Rising Star
Despite challenges, Tyla remains committed to elevating African music. “It’s about showing the world that African music is a movement,” she says. And as she continues to break boundaries, there’s no doubt she’s only just getting started.
