Twenty-two-year-old Johannesburg-born Tyla Laura Seethal, stage name Tyla, put the W in Win, by becoming the youngest African artist to win a Grammy Award in history, for her hit track Water.
The song garnered a lot of traction globally after its release last year. It has been a soundtrack to videos of some big names such as Chris Brown, Ciara including making it to former US President, Barack Obama’s list of his favourite 2023 jams.
Tyla expressed disbelief to her giant milestone at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards held in Los Angeles, USA.
“I never thought I’d say I won a Grammy at 22 years old. Last year God decided to change my whole life. Thank you so much to God, my team, my family, I know my mother is crying somewhere in here. Thank you to the recording academy for this category. It’s so important,” said the excited Tyla.
Water’s success has given her international recognition that includes a BET nomination for “Best New Artist’’, alongside Nigeria’s singer, Ayra Starr.
Among many South Africans who beamed with pride is Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa.
“Tyla’s Grammy Award win once again confirms her status as a music global superstar.
“Her meteoric success has been truly inspiring and there is so much more to come,’’ said Kodwa.
@Zoe_SZi applauded Tyla for putting the country on the map commenting “Tyla got onto the world stage and promoted South Africa. She didn’t use it as an opportunity to complain about the country. That’s what we need.”
Mzansi was well represented at this edition of the Grammy’s, with the likes of Trevor Noah who was hosting the ceremony for the fourth consecutive time and Musa Keys being nominated under “Best African Performance’’ for his collabo with Davido.
Trevor was also nominated for “Best Comedy Album.”
