What’s the Buzz?
South African Grammy-winning sensation Tyla has opened up about the artists who’ve inspired her meteoric rise in the music industry. In a recent interview with Billboard, the “Water” hitmaker revealed that Nigerian R&B star Tems is one of her biggest musical influences, alongside legends like Britney Spears, Whitney Houston, and Aaliyah.
Tyla’s admiration for these iconic artists offers a glimpse into the eclectic mix of sounds and styles that have shaped her unique musical identity. Plus, she dropped a hint about her upcoming sophomore album, promising it’ll be a fresh departure from her debut. Let’s dive in!
Tems: A Trailblazer Who Inspires
When it comes to modern-day influences, Tems tops Tyla’s list. The Nigerian singer-songwriter has taken the global music scene by storm, and Tyla is here for it.
“Tems is a big one. What she’s been able to do has been very inspiring,” Tyla shared.
It’s no surprise that Tems’ groundbreaking achievements—like her collaborations with global superstars and her Grammy win—have left a mark on Tyla. Both artists are redefining African music on the world stage, and Tyla’s nod to Tems highlights the growing influence of African artists in the global music landscape.
Tems’ ability to blend Afrobeat, R&B, and soul into a sound that resonates globally has clearly inspired Tyla to push boundaries in her own music. It’s a testament to how African artists are not only making waves locally but also setting trends internationally.
Legends Who Lit the Way
While Tems represents the new wave of inspiration, Tyla also draws from the timeless greatness of music icons:
- Britney Spears: The pop princess’s electrifying performances and chart-topping hits have clearly left an impression on Tyla. Britney’s ability to dominate the pop scene in the late ’90s and early 2000s with hits like “Baby One More Time” and “Toxic” has inspired Tyla to create music that’s both catchy and impactful.
- Whitney Houston: Whitney’s powerhouse vocals and emotional depth are a masterclass in artistry that Tyla admires. Songs like “I Will Always Love You” and “Greatest Love of All” have set the standard for vocal excellence, and Tyla’s appreciation for Whitney shows her commitment to delivering music that touches the soul.
- Aaliyah: The late R&B legend’s smooth style and innovative sound continue to inspire a new generation of artists, including Tyla. Aaliyah’s ability to blend R&B with hip-hop and her iconic fashion sense have made her a timeless influence. Tyla’s nod to Aaliyah suggests she’s drawing from her ability to be both a trendsetter and a musical innovator.
These legends have not only shaped Tyla’s musical tastes but also influenced her approach to creating music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
What’s Next for Tyla?
Fans of Tyla have even more to look forward to this year. During the interview, she teased the release of her sophomore album, promising it’ll be a bold new direction from her debut.
“It’s going to be completely different from my first album,” she hinted.
While she didn’t spill all the details, this announcement has already set the music world abuzz. If her debut album is anything to go by, Tyla’s next project is sure to be a game-changer. Her debut, which featured the viral hit “Water,” showcased her ability to blend Afrobeat, pop, and R&B into a sound that’s uniquely hers. With her sophomore album, Tyla seems ready to explore new sonic territories and solidify her place as one of Africa’s brightest musical exports.
Why This Matters
Tyla’s journey is a testament to the power of inspiration and the impact of musical legends. By paying homage to artists like Tems, Britney Spears, Whitney Houston, and Aaliyah, she’s not only celebrating their contributions but also carving out her own space in the industry.
Her ability to blend influences from different eras and genres is a big part of what makes her music so fresh and exciting. And with a new album on the horizon, Tyla is poised to take her career to even greater heights.
The Bigger Picture: African Music on the Global Stage
Tyla’s rise is part of a larger movement that’s seeing African artists take center stage in the global music industry. From Burna Boy and Wizkid to Tems and now Tyla, African music is no longer confined to the continent—it’s a global phenomenon.
Tyla’s success, fueled by her unique sound and international appeal, is a shining example of how African artists are breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be a global superstar. Her ability to draw inspiration from both African and international artists shows the interconnectedness of music and the universal language it speaks.
What Fans Can Expect
As Tyla prepares to drop her sophomore album, fans can expect a project that’s bold, innovative, and true to her artistic vision. If her debut album was a statement of arrival, her second album could be a declaration of dominance.
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With influences ranging from Tems’ Afro-R&B vibes to Whitney Houston’s vocal prowess, Tyla’s new music is likely to be a melting pot of sounds that reflect her diverse inspirations. And if “Water” is any indication, we’re in for a treat.
Key Takeaways
- Tyla cites Tems, Britney Spears, Whitney Houston, and Aaliyah as her musical inspirations.
- She praises Tems for her groundbreaking achievements and global impact.
- Tyla’s sophomore album is set to drop this year and will be a departure from her debut.
- Her eclectic influences highlight the evolving sound of African music on the global stage.
- Tyla’s success is part of a larger movement of African artists making waves internationally.
