Sep 27, 2023
In the glittering constellation of global superstars, the story of Rihanna stands as a shining testament to the idea that fame knows no geographical boundaries. It's a narrative that resonates deeply with Tyla, a young, 21-year-old singer hailing from the vibrant city of Johannesburg. Drawing inspiration from Rihanna's meteoric rise to fame, Tyla is poised to follow in her footsteps, firmly establishing herself as one of the music industry's most promising talents.
Tyla's journey to stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. This year, she had the honor of opening for none other than Chris Brown, an artist whose connection to Rihanna adds another layer of significance to her burgeoning career. Since the release of her debut single, "Getting Late," in 2019, Tyla's star has been on an unstoppable ascent, with the track amassing over three billion streaming listens worldwide. Her unique blend of talent and charisma has captivated audiences, propelling her into the spotlight.
The list of Tyla's achievements reads like a dream come true for any young artist. From gracing the stage at a Dolce & Gabbana fashion show in Milan to her track "Overdue" (2021) finding a place in the soundtrack of the popular Netflix series "Blood & Water," she has left an indelible mark on the global entertainment scene. Tyla's decision to sign with the major record label Epic Records is a testament to her undeniable potential, cementing her status as a rising star in the world of pop music.
What's even more astounding is the rapidity with which Tyla's star has ascended. With just a handful of singles, including hits like "Getting Late," "Overdue," "Been Thinking," and "To Last," she has managed to capture the hearts of fans worldwide. A few graceful dance moves on TikTok were all it took to make her a sensation, and from there, her career has continued to flourish.
Yet, beneath the glitz and glamour of her newfound fame, Tyla's story is rooted in a humble upbringing in Johannesburg. She shared her personal journey during a meeting in the enchanting city of Paris. "I was born and raised in Johannesburg, in a large family of five children," Tyla recounts. "My father is an accountant, and my mother, well, she dabbled in various jobs but was incredibly creative. She crafted jewelry, made candles... I have a strong bond with my siblings; we were born within a year of each other. Our parents were strict, which meant we spent a lot of time at home, ultimately becoming the best of friends."
As she reminisces about her vibrant childhood, one can almost visualize the vivid tapestry of colorful moments, echoing laughter, and the unbreakable bonds forged between siblings. Tyla continues, "With my siblings, we were quite the lively bunch. We were occasionally allowed to venture to the corner store with our cousins. Sometimes, our mother would enlist our help in selling second-hand clothes. We would pick a random street corner, lay out a blanket, and enthusiastically persuade passersby to make a purchase. We even set up shop at the taxi rank, selling fat cakes, also known as magwinya, a popular African pastry. In essence, we were our mother's sales team. We weren't wealthy, but I cherish those memories from my childhood."
Tyla's story is a testament to the power of talent, determination, and inspiration drawn from those who have paved the way before her. As she continues her meteoric rise in the music industry, one can't help but wonder if she will follow in the footsteps of Rihanna, whose journey from a distant world to global stardom has inspired countless artists, including the dynamic and gifted Tyla.
