African music, from the iconic sounds of Wizkid and Davido to the emerging talents like Ayra Starr and Tiwa Savage, is currently experiencing a remarkable global resurgence, particularly in the United States. Tyla observes that Tems’ rise to fame has played a pivotal role in fueling this resurgence.
In a conversation with NPR on March 28, 2024, the celebrated “Water” songstress delved into the trajectory of African talent breaking into the mainstream, reflecting on her own journey to prominence.
“We’ve seen African artists pushing boundaries before, but now is a time when people are truly taking notice of us, embracing the music and the culture, and showing genuine interest beyond fleeting trends,” she explained. “And leading this charge are African artists.”
When discussing her creative process in crafting hit songs, Tyla disclosed that she, like many others, often blends pop and R&B melodies with beats that pay homage to their cultural roots and influences. She specifically credited Nigerian singer Tems for inspiring her to adopt this approach.
“Among our generation, she’s the standard-bearer,” declared the Grammy Award winner. “She’s been incredibly successful and has opened numerous doors for us.”
TYLA’s latest release has made waves on streaming platforms, boasting guest appearances from Gunna, Skillibeng, Kelvin Momo, and Becky G. Notably, she collaborated with Travis Scott for the remix of her international hit “Water.” Tracks like “ART,” “Truth or Dare,” and “On My Body” have also earned significant acclaim and adoration from fans.
Meanwhile, Tems, who is gearing up for the debut of her LP later this year, has forged collaborations with some of the biggest names in the U.S. music scene. She contributed to the writing of Beyoncé’s “MOVE” and Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up.” Additionally, Future’s track “WAIT FOR U,” featuring Drake, sampled her 2020 release “Higher.”
