Grammy-winning South African singer, Tyla, has responded to Nigerian superstar Tiwa Savage’s recent apology to Black Americans over her “coloured” identity remarks.
Tyla sparked controversy after identifying as “coloured” — a term widely embraced in South Africa to describe people of mixed heritage, but considered deeply offensive in the United States due to its history of racial segregation.
The comment triggered backlash from many African-Americans, particularly within the Black community, who demanded accountability.
During a recent appearance on The Breakfast Club in the U.S., Tiwa Savage stepped in, apologising to Black Americans on Tyla’s behalf while calling herself the younger star’s “elder.”
Her intervention, however, drew sharp criticism from South Africans, who accused Savage of speaking for their own without understanding the cultural context behind the term.
Tyla has now made it clear that she does not stand by Savage’s apology. While performing at the Global Citizen Festival in New York over the weekend, the Water hitmaker appeared to send a subtle but powerful message.
“Sorry, I am not sorry,” she declared on stage before launching into her track Mr Media.
The statement quickly went viral, with many South Africans celebrating her for firmly rejecting Savage’s remarks and defending her identity. Clips of the moment have since flooded social media, with thousands praising Tyla for refusing to apologise for who she is.
