Tyla’s Journey: From Pressure to Authenticity in Music
In a candid interview with Variety, Tyla, the 23-year-old South African singer, opened up about her early career struggles and the pressures she faced to conform to mainstream music trends. Known for her breakout single "Water," Tyla’s journey reflects a powerful narrative of self-discovery and cultural pride.
The Weight of Expectations
When Tyla signed her first record deal at just 19, she was thrust into a whirlwind of opinions and expectations. “A lot of opinions came in, and it was a very overwhelming experience,” she shared. The pressure to fit into a mold, particularly the bubblegum pop genre, was intense. Despite her talent and unique voice, she found herself navigating a landscape that often prioritized commercial viability over artistic authenticity.
The Bubblegum Pop Dilemma
During her initial songwriting sessions, Tyla encountered attempts to steer her music towards a more generic, pop-oriented sound. Reflecting on those experiences, she described the songs as “the most generic compositions you could ever think of.” The disconnect was palpable; these tracks didn’t resonate with her identity or artistic vision. “I remember being in my hotel room and my managers were calling me, ‘Come down, we need to cut the song,’” she recalled, revealing the emotional turmoil she faced. “I was crying and thinking, ‘This is not what I want. I didn’t get signed to do this.’”
A Turning Point
It was through this struggle that Tyla experienced a pivotal moment of resistance. Instead of succumbing to the pressure, she began to embrace her roots and the music that truly inspired her. “I think through doing that, I realized how much more I love African music,” she noted. This realization fueled her determination to stay true to her artistic vision, ultimately leading her to create music that reflects her cultural heritage.
Cultural Context and Personal Growth
Tyla’s journey is also deeply intertwined with her cultural background. Growing up in a society where questioning authority, especially for women, is often frowned upon, she faced additional challenges. “In my culture, women are expected to stay out of men’s conversations, the men eat first,” she explained. Yet, she fought against these norms, carving out her own path in the music industry. This struggle for autonomy not only shaped her music but also her identity as an artist.
The Birth of "Water"
The culmination of Tyla’s journey of self-discovery and cultural pride is encapsulated in her hit single "Water." Reflecting on the recording process, she shared, “I couldn’t have been more closed off to the outside world.” The intimate setting of the studio, with just her engineer and his pregnant wife present, allowed her to tap into her true self. “I used to be so shy,” she admitted, highlighting her growth as both a person and an artist.
Authenticity Meets Global Appeal
Ezekiel Lewis, president of Epic Records, recognized the importance of Tyla’s authentic sound. He stated, “Tyla’s first hit had to come from an African perspective — sonically rooted in Africa, but with the ability to travel globally.” This vision was realized with "Water," which not only resonated with her personal narrative but also captured the attention of a global audience. The song became a testament to her commitment to authenticity while appealing to listeners worldwide.
Looking Ahead
As Tyla continues to evolve as an artist, her story serves as an inspiration for many. Her journey from the pressures of the music industry to embracing her cultural roots exemplifies the importance of authenticity in art. With her unique sound and powerful narrative, Tyla is poised to make a lasting impact on the music scene, proving that staying true to oneself can lead to extraordinary success.
In the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, Tyla’s commitment to her roots and her refusal to conform to mainstream expectations set her apart as a true artist. As she prepares for future projects, fans eagerly anticipate what this talented singer will bring next.