“My parents found it really weird” — Tyla spills on her deal with her folks and how Water became a global hit

Tyla shines on the cover of NYLON magazine’s April 2025 issue, a well-deserved milestone for the South African sensation whose smash hit “Water” has taken the world by storm. In a follow-up interview, she opened up about the global phenomenon and a deal she struck with her parents—one that changed the course of her life.

In her conversation with the lifestyle and pop culture publication, Tyla revealed that she made an agreement with her folks: she had to finish college if her singing career didn’t take off within a year.

The pivotal point, according to the 23-year-old singer, came with the success of "Water."

“I would have to say it was the rise of ‘Water,’ just seeing how that song crossed over not only in South Africa but the world. That song traveled so far, my parents found it really weird. They were in shock."

She went on to say that the track's success was a defining moment not just for herself, but also for her parents.

“ Them watching me win a Grammy was also a moment where I feel like it really sunk in for not only myself but them too.”

Even in her homeland, the “Truth or Dare” songstress’ mother enjoys her fame, particularly when she struck a pose with a fan after a “strange” encounter.

“I got this one DM from this person who was like, ‘I’m such a big fan. Your music is so inspiring. I’m so happy — by the way, I met your mom.’ And then there’s a whole picture of my mother with this fan! I was like, ‘Ma, when did you do this?’ And she’s like, ‘They ask me for pictures, too, Tyla.’”

The experience, though bizarre, left Tyla thinking that her "mom loves it."

"That was a little bit strange, but I thought it was cool.”

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Tyla’s tidal wave: The ripple-making “Water” and a billion streams

In February, Spotify reported that Tyla rose to become the first African solo singer after her 2023 breakthrough hit “Water” joined the Billions Club of the music streaming giant.

Released in July 2023, the addictive summer pop anthem peaked at No. 7 on the Hot 100 chart by Billboard, and surged to No. 1 on Afrobeat Songs for over 50 weeks.

“Water,” a sultry and synth-driven tune, would then spring up to seize the Best African Music Performance award at the 2024 Grammys.

“We are incredibly proud of Tyla’s historic achievement,” said the head of Spotify in Africa, Phiona Okumu.

She further praised the “Jump” singer’s success, calling it “a testament to her talent, hard work, and the power of music to transcend borders.”

“Tyla’s success is an inspiration to aspiring artists across Africa and the world,” Okumu added. “And we are honored to have played a part in her journey.”

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Meet Tyla: The South African artist behind the global hit "Water"

Tyla, born Tyla Laura Seethal on January 30, 2002, in Johannesburg, South Africa, is a singer and songwriter known for blending amapiano and pop as her musical style. She signed with Epic Records in 2021 following the local acclaim for her 2019 album Getting Ready in her home country, but it was in 2023 when she broke into the global spotlight with "Water."

In 2024 alone, the lead single of her self-titled debut studio album secured multiple accolades, including African Song of the Year at the 3Music Awards and Song of the Year at the Basadi in Music Awards. The track was also crowned Song of the Year by the DStv Content Creator Awards.

The MTV Video Music Awards (MTV VMAs) also honored Tyla's "Water" with the Best Afrobeats Video trophy, besting Ayra Starr ft. Giveon’s "Last Heartbreak Song," Usher’s "Ruin," and more.

Beyond her music career, Tyla’s influence extends to fashion and brand deals. She graced the 2024 Met Gala with her sandy Balmain dress and made it to the prestigious event’s list of best-dressed.

In April 2025, Tyla was announced as Pandora’s new brand ambassador. The collaboration, titled Pandora Styled by Tyla, will reflect Tyla’s “journey, passions, and inspirations.”

Meanwhile, the “ART” singer is slated to headline Coachella on April 11, joining a star-studded lineup that includes Lady Gaga, LISA, Marina, d4vd, Djo, and more.