Rising global sensation Tyla is paying homage to her roots, naming legendary South African pop stars Brenda Fassie and Lebo Mathosa as her earliest career inspirations.
The announcement came as the Johannesburg-born singer achieved a monumental personal victory.
TYLA IS GLAMOUR’S WOMAN OF THE YEAR
The singer was crowned GLAMOUR magazine’s Global Woman of the Year. During an exclusive interview for the publication’s ‘Girlhood’ series, Tyla reflected on her journey.
She also touched on the women who shaped her ambitions. When asked about the first artist whose career she admired, she immediately pointed to the two iconic South African performers.
“I really admired Brenda Fassie and Lebo Mathosa,” Tyla stated. “They were like our pop stars.”
GROWING UP IN SOUTH AFRICA
She recalled the pervasive influence of their music during her childhood, according to Slikouronlife.
“Their music was just so infectious, it was everywhere. And they were women… It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.”
This tribute from Tyla shines a renewed international spotlight on the formidable legacies of the two singers.
BRENDA FASSIE AND LEBO MATHOSA
Brenda Fassie, the ‘Queen of African Pop,’ and Lebo Mathosa, the dynamic frontwoman of Boom Shaka.
Both artists achieved colossal success in the 1990s and early 2000s, captivating the nation with their powerful vocals and electrifying stage presence.
By acknowledging these pioneers, Tyla powerfully connects her burgeoning international stardom to a proud lineage of South African female artistry.
TYLA CHARTING HER OWN COURSE
As Tyla continues to chart her own course on the world stage, she carries with her the influential spirit of the South African greats who paved the way.
She is demonstrating the enduring power of homegrown talent.
For South African fans, Tyla’s global success story is not just her own, but a celebration of a rich musical heritage reaching new audiences.