On Sunday, South African singer Tyla won the Best African Music Performance award at the 66th Grammy Awards.
Not only did the once-local star become a worldwide celebrity that evening, but she also topped the best-dressed list.
The 22-year-old “Water” singer looked stunning in a Versace one-shoulder gown with a soft green tone.
The flowing, floor-length gown brought to mind J-Lo’s well-known green Grammy Awards outfit from 2000.
With its lengthy train and bold geometric cutouts, the dress shone with Swarovski crystals, causing her to sparkle from head to toe.
The crystal-covered mesh sections of the dress covered parts of her arm, one leg, and a part of her torso, giving the look a sexy, yet glamorous feel.
She completed the look with a simple pair of white crystal Rene Caovilla strappy heels that wrapped around her ankles.
For jewelry, Tyla wore a pair of Maria Tash swirl-shaped earrings, as well as a belly ring by the same designer.
Her hair and make-up were on point as well.
She wore her curls in an updo, and for her makeup, she opted for a smokey eye with winged liner, which she paired with a glossy neutral lip.
Even though cut-outs and figure-hugging dresses aren’t a departure from what we’re used to seeing Tyla wearing, she certainly upped her game for the special occasion.
Tyla was nominated for the Best African Music Performance award alongside Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Asake, Olamide, and Davido, featuring South African artist Musa Keys.
About Tyla
Tyla Laura Seethal, professionally known as Tyla, has carved a distinct niche for herself in the global music scene as a trailblazing South African singer and songwriter. Her unique blend of cultural influences, stemming from her Indian, Zulu, Mauritian, and Irish heritage, has imbued her music with a rich diversity that resonates with audiences worldwide. Born on January 30, 2002, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Tyla’s journey from a mining engineering student to a Grammy-winning artist is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for music.
Growing up as the middle child in a family of five, Tyla’s upbringing in Johannesburg’s vibrant cultural milieu played a crucial role in shaping her musical tastes and ambitions. Despite initially embarking on a path to become a mining engineer, Tyla’s true calling in music was undeniable. Her realization of this passion led her to pivot towards a career in music, a decision that would soon pay dividends.
Tyla’s musical breakthrough came amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic when she leveraged the power of social media to reach a wider audience. Her engaging dance routines and captivating song covers on TikTok quickly garnered a significant following, setting the stage for her breakthrough single, “Getting Late,” featuring Kooldrink, released in late 2019. The song’s success, particularly the viral reception of its music video, catapulted Tyla into the spotlight, affirming her potential as a rising star in the music industry.
In 2021, Tyla’s burgeoning career took a major leap forward when she signed with Epic Records, following the domestic success of “Getting Late.”. This partnership marked a new chapter in her career, providing her with the platform to reach audiences beyond the borders of South Africa.
Tyla’s international fame was solidified with the release of her 2023 single “Water”, a mesmerizing track that showcased her ability to blend traditional African rhythms with contemporary sounds. The single achieved remarkable success, entering the top ten in sixteen countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States. Notably, “Water” became the first song by a South African solo artist to enter the US Billboard Hot 100 in over five decades, a historic achievement that underscored Tyla’s impact on the global music scene.
The crowning moment of Tyla’s career came at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards in 2024, where she won the prestigious Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance for “Water”. This accolade not only celebrated her musical talent but also marked the recognition of African music on the global stage, aligning with Tyla’s passion for promoting her country’s culture and music.
In addition to her Grammy win, Tyla has been recognized with nominations for a BRIT Award, a Soul Train Music Award, a MOBO Award, and two South African Music Awards, highlighting her versatility and appeal across various music genres. With her self-titled debut album set for release on March 22, 2024, Tyla is poised to continue her ascent in the music industry, promising to bring more of her innovative and culturally rich music to the world stage.
Content courtesy of IOL & NFH Digital Team
