Tyla’s MTV VMAs win sparks controversy among music legends, pioneers of Afrobeats
South African singer Tyla has found herself at the center of a vibrant conversation about genre identity in the landscape of African music.
Recently, she boldly declared her allegiance to Amapiano at the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) while simultaneously accepting an award for Afrobeats.
At the MTV VMAs, the singer said: “The impact that ‘Water’ has had on the world proves that African music can be pop music, too. This is so special but also bittersweet. Because I know there’s a tendency to group all African artists under Afrobeats.
“Even though Afrobeats has run things and has opened so many doors for us, African music is so diverse. It’s more than just Afrobeats.
“I come from South Africa, I represent Amapiano. I present my culture. And I just want to shout out all the Afrobeats artists in this category with me. Shout out to all the Afrobeats artistes Tems, Ayra Starr, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Rema and Lojay.
This duality raises essential questions about the nature of musical representation and the complexities artists face in a rapidly changing industry.
Tyla, who burst onto the scene with her infectious hit, Water insisted that she represents Amapiano, which is not just a statement; it’s a declaration of pride for a genre that has emerged as a cultural force.
Amapiano vs. Afrobeats: A Balancing Act
Tyla’s journey highlights a broader trend within African music, where artists are increasingly blending genres to reach wider audiences. The rise of Amapiano has coincided with a global surge in Afrobeat’s popularity, leading many artists to explore the rich sounds of both genres. Tyla’s ability to navigate these waters speaks to her versatility and ambition.
While Amapiano is often celebrated for its local authenticity, Afrobeat carries significant weight on the international stage, largely due to the efforts of Nigerian artists who have pioneered the genre.
By accepting the Afrobeats award, Tyla positions herself within a more extensive musical conversation, potentially opening doors for greater recognition of Amapiano on the global platform.
Yet, the juxtaposition of her claims to represent Amapiano while receiving an Afrobeats award raises important discussions about ownership and authenticity.
A Call for Inclusivity
Tyla’s heartfelt shout-out to fellow Afrobeats artists like Ayra Starr, Rema, and Lojay exemplifies her respect for her peers while advocating for inclusivity within the industry. In a landscape where genre definitions can often become restrictive, Tyla’s message encourages artists and listeners alike to embrace the diversity that exists within African music.
As listeners, we must also challenge ourselves to move beyond simplistic categorizations. When we celebrate African music, we must celebrate all its dimensions—recognizing that every genre tells a story, reflects a culture, and contributes to the global soundscape.
A New Era of Musical Identity
Tyla’s bold move to embrace both Amapiano, Afropop and Afrobeats could signal a new era for African music, where fluidity and genre-blending are not just accepted but celebrated. This shift may redefine how we understand musical identity in the 21st century, allowing artists to draw from diverse influences while remaining true to their cultural heritage.
As Tyla continues to push boundaries, her story serves as a reminder that the music industry is not static. The lines between genres are increasingly blurred, and the definitions of what it means to be an artist are evolving.
In the end, Tyla’s journey reflects the dynamic nature of African music today. By fighting for Amapiano recognition while accepting Afrobeats honours, she embodies the complexities of a modern artist navigating a multifaceted musical landscape.
