July 17, 11:00

Tyla announces participation of Babalwa M and MaWhoo in new album 'A*POP'

Singer Tyla has announced unexpected participants for her highly anticipated album 'A*POP': MaWhoo and Babalwa M have joined the project. These announcements came a day after the official structure of the album, consisting of 14 tracks, was presented.

New Collaborations and Genres

In addition to the previously announced artist Zara Larsson, MaWhoo and Babalwa M have become part of the project. For many fans, these names were a surprise, but they are known for building their careers around popular South African sounds, including amapiano, gqom, and 3-Step. Now these musicians are integrating into Tyla's work, which is generating great interest among fans.

The announcement of the collaborations followed Tyla's explanation that 'A*POP' marks a new stage both in her music and in her personal development. She had previously shared with 'IOL' that the album would feature more of her own vocals. In a separate interview for 'Kreative Korner', the singer explained that if her debut album was dedicated to her African roots, 'A*POP' expands this vision to include various genres she listened to as a child. She stated: 'My first album, I feel like I truly honored my African roots, and this one I wanted to honor not only that but also what I liked as a child, what I listened to growing up. As South Africans, we are influenced by many different genres, and as Tyla, I wanted to show more of myself.'

The combination of Larsson, MaWhoo, and Babalwa M makes 'A*POP' a project that is apparently not confined to one direction. This release serves as a platform for other South African artists on one of the most anticipated global releases of the year. If Tyla's debut introduced popiano to the world, 'A*POP' could solidify the status of African pop as a recognized genre, proving that South African music does not have to fit into one category to gain worldwide recognition.

iol.co.zaJuly 7, 10:30

Tyla denies rumors of signing a contract with Roc Nation and announces album 'A*POP'

Following her performance at the Afro Nation Portugal event, singer Tyla dispelled rumors regarding her alleged collaboration with Roc Nation and shared details about her upcoming album titled 'A*POP'.

Clarifying Roc Nation Rumors

Despite numerous reports and headlines claiming that Tyla had signed a contract with Roc Nation, the singer personally clarified the situation. She confirmed that she is not the latest artist signed by Jay-Z's company, Roc Nation.

The rumors gained significant traction after a digital billboard featuring Tyla appeared on Times Square in New York, prompting several publications to report on her joining the company. However, checking the official Roc Nation website did not list Tyla among its artists.

Status with Epic Records

Furthermore, there were speculations that the Grammy winner might be ending her relationship with Epic Records. Nevertheless, Tyla continues to appear on the official roster of Epic Records, indicating that her contract with the label remains active.

Focus on New Album 'A*POP'

The singer decided to focus the audience's attention on the upcoming release of her second studio album, 'A*POP', which is scheduled for July 24, 2026. This album will serve as a continuation of her debut album under her own name.

In recent weeks, Tyla has actively promoted the project both on social media and during live performances, generating anticipation among fans regarding the evolution of her musical style. She also revealed details about the creative process of making the album.

Album Production in South Africa

Tyla shared that she consciously returned home to South Africa to finalize the project. In a recent interview, she mentioned setting up a filming location at a lodge in the Cradle of Humankind, where studios were installed amidst nature.

The singer explained her decision by saying she strongly wanted to finish the album at home in South Africa so that the atmosphere would remind her of her childhood when her parents used to take her there. She emphasized the desire for all participants in the process to experience the same environment that shaped some of her childhood memories.

Around monkeys, insects, and in nature, Tyla noted that she wanted the album creation process to resemble the movie 'The Lion King'. She added that they had to run wires through bushes for the recording equipment to work and joked that every morning she woke up with monkeys, feeling like a movie hero.

iol.co.zaJuly 5, 16:55

Tyla impressed at Afro Nation in Portugal with a vibrant 'A*POP' style performance

Tyla's performance at the Afro Nation event demonstrated that she has moved beyond being just a South African star and has become a global celebrity. Watching her performance at Afro Nation showed that she has transcended the status of a South African-only star.

Performance in Portugal

Tyla's appearance on Praia da Rocha beach in Portugal was a completely unusual experience. Global superstar Tyla delivered an unforgettable show at Afro Nation, marking her journey and hinting at upcoming events.

From the moment she took the stage, the girl from Edenvale, Johannesburg, instantly captured attention, and thousands of spectators repeated her name and sang along to every line. Although Tyla had previously performed in South Africa, the atmosphere among the international audience, including people from Nigeria and the UK, was completely different.

Concert Program and Choreography

As one of the headliners, Tyla presented her third performance at Afro Nation, which turned out to be incredible. Her setlist was dedicated to her discography and included hits such as 'Is It', 'Getting Late', 'A.R.T.', 'Safer', 'She Did It Again', and 'Jump'. The performance was filled with meticulously rehearsed choreography that matched the music and told a story. White pompoms were used during the performance of 'Chanel', adding depth to the moment.

Dancers provided full support throughout the set, demonstrating perfectly synchronized energy with the music being played. Tyla is preparing for the release of her second studio album, APOP*, and is currently undergoing a major promotional phase eagerly awaited by fans.

Detailing the A*POP Concept

During the performance, she integrated the A*POP theme by writing the album title in neon green paint on her body and placing it around the stage to emphasize the new era. When she began performing songs from the upcoming album, Tyla even wrote '21 days to A*POP' on a mirror using neon green paint. Furthermore, the word 'APOP' was applied to her microphone, indicating meticulous attention to detail.

It was evident that Tyla had thought through every aspect, from her outfit to the glitter on her body, before stepping on stage, embodying the true image of a superstar. Observing her performance before an audience of over 40,000 people from around the world confirmed that she is a pop star with influence far beyond South Africa, and the young woman from South Africa managed to conquer such a large stage.