The YouTube Theater in Los Angeles buzzed with excitement on 29 March 2025 as South Africa’s Tyla made history by claiming the Impact Award at the Billboard Women in Music ceremony.
TYLA AND BECKY G
Backstage, she shared a heartfelt moment with fellow honoree Becky G, who won the same award in 2023, according to Elle.
Tyla’s win capped a whirlwind of a year. The 23-year-old Jozi-born artist recently became the first South African to win a World Artist of the Year award at the iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Her hit single Water surpassed 1 billion streams, and she’s now part of the Met Gala’s host committee.
TYLA’S JOURNEY
Becky G, who presented at the event, praised Tyla’s “captivating uniqueness” and “drive”. The two artists posed together in a photo shared by Unorthodox Reviews, beaming with pride.
Tyla’s journey from local amapiano star to global icon has been meteoric.
Her self-titled debut album (2024) blended Afrobeats, R&B, and South African rhythms, earning her a Grammy for Best African Music Performance.
Despite a back injury forcing her to cancel her Coachella debut, she rebounded with Push 2 Start, a sultry reggae track featured at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.
TYLA AND HER IMPACT AWARD
Her Impact Award recognises her role in elevating African music globally, according to BET.
“I’m not just representing myself—I’m carrying South Africa’s flag,” she said in a pre-event interview.
The Billboard Women in Music event, hosted by Laverne Cox, featured performances by aespa, Erykah Badu, and Megan Moroney.
Tyla’s set electrified the crowd, blending her signature amapiano beats with international flair.
Becky G, known for hits like Shower, reflected on Tyla’s win: “She’s breaking barriers for African artists. Her energy is infectious!”.
SOUTH AFRICAN TALENT
Tyla’s success resonates deeply in South Africa. Her music often incorporates local slang and cultural references, making her a beloved ambassador, according to Buzz Feed.
“She’s proving we don’t have to choose between our roots and global appeal,” said a fan at the event.
The ceremony aired live on VIZIO WatchFree+ for free, with tickets priced from R1,500 (presale) to R3,000.
SOUTH AFRICAN TALENT
Tyla’s next move? She’s working on new music and advocating for African artists to be recognised beyond “Afrobeats” stereotypes.
With her Impact Award and World Artist of the Year title, she’s cemented her status as a trailblazer.
As she left the stage, Tyla grinned: “This is for every South African kid who dared to dream big.”
WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES TYLA’S MUSIC APPEAL TO BOTH LOCAL AND GLOBAL AUDIENCES?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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