BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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South African sensation Tyla is set to receive the “Impact Award” at the 2025 Billboard Women in Music event, further cementing her status as one of the most influential young artists on the global stage. The prestigious ceremony, which honors outstanding women shaping the music industry, will take place on March 29, 2025, at the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles.
The 22-year-old singer has skyrocketed to international fame with her distinct blend of amapiano and pop–a style she calls “popiano.” She first caught attention in 2019 with her debut single “Getting Late” but truly broke through with “Water” in 2023, a viral song that not only made Tyla the first South African soloist in 55 years to enter the Billboard Hot 100 but also earned her the first-ever Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance in 2024. The momentous win positioned her as the youngest African artist to claim the honor, solidifying her as a trailblazer in the industry.
Billboard’s “Impact Award” is given to artists who have made significant cultural and musical contributions to the industry, and Tyla’s influence speaks for itself. Her ability to seamlessly fuse South African sounds with global pop sensibilities has introduced amapiano to mainstream audiences and propelled African music further onto the world stage–thus making this award, very well deserved.
Tyla is no stranger to industry accolades. In 2024, she was also honored with the Global Force Award at Billboard’s inaugural R&B No. 1s event in New York. Reflecting on her journey, she expressed gratitude to Billboard, her team, family, and fans, acknowledging the incredible path from Johannesburg to global stardom.
Tyla’s meteoric rise signals a new era for African artists on the global stage. With each milestone, she not only elevates her own career but also paves the way for future generations of African musicians. The “Impact Award” is more than just recognition–it’s a testament to how far African music has come and where it’s headed next.
