South African pop star Tyla received a prestigious honour from the US music and entertainment magazine Billboard on Sunday in New York.
She attended the Billboard R&B No. 1 event at The Box, where she was recognised as a “global force.”
In her acceptance speech, Tyla expressed gratitude to Billboard, her team, label, family, God, and her fans, whom she affectionately calls her “Tygers.”
Tyla Accepts the Global Impact Award | Billboard’s R&B No.1s 2024 (youtube.com)
“This is crazy that I’m being honoured here tonight. What the heck,” she exclaimed. “I remember when it felt like this was so unattainable, especially from where I’m from. The fact that I’m here today, living out a dream that never felt real, is just such a beautiful experience.”
She went on to thank those who appreciate and embrace diverse cultures and musical styles: “Thank you to everyone who takes the time to learn about other cultures and styles of music, and truly appreciates and loves it for what it is.”
The award was presented by Heran Mamo, senior R&B, hip-hop, and Afrobeats writer at Billboard.
“I’m really honoured to present our next award this evening,” Mamo said. “For years, she dreamed of becoming Africa’s first pop star. Now she’s taken over the world with her signature ‘popiano’ sound, performing her pop-infused take on South Africa’s Amapiano in the US, France, Portugal, Japan, South Korea, and more.”
Mamo added: “She has successfully transformed the motto ‘Africa to the world’* into her mission. Please join me in a round of applause for Billboard‘s Global Force Honouree, Tyla.”
