WeeklySA_AdminMILESTONE: The Grammy-winning South African superstar unveils her second studio album, APOP, while becoming the first South African celebrity to be immortalised as a Bratz Collector doll, capping another milestone in her meteoric rise…
By Lehlohonolo Lehana
Grammy-winning South African singer Tyla has released her highly anticipated second studio album, APOP, while adding another landmark achievement to her growing list of global accolades with her own Bratz Celebrity Collector doll.
Released on Friday through FAX Records and Epic Records, APOP – short for African Pop – sees the Johannesburg-born artist expand her signature sound by blending amapiano, Afrobeats and contemporary pop influences into a celebration of African identity.
Among the album’s standout moments is a fresh interpretation of Liquideep’s 2009 hit FairyTale, introducing the South African classic to a new generation of listeners.
Tyla also stays firmly connected to her roots through collaborations with fellow South African stars Babalwa M and MaWhoo on the tracks I DON’T CARE and CRAZY OF ME, further showcasing the local influences that have become central to her music.
Speaking to Apple Music’s Ebro Darden, Tyla said the album represents her mission to broaden global perceptions of African music.
“APOP, African Pop. APOP* is literally me trying to extend the idea of what an African pop star looks like and what an African pop star sounds like,” she said.
She revealed that she has often faced criticism suggesting she is “not African enough”, but questioned who gets to define African identity.
Tyla said the album reflects every aspect of her upbringing and musical influences. “With APOP, it’s really just that – I bring the A to pop,” she said.
The release caps another remarkable year for the South African sensation, whose international profile has continued to soar following victories at the BET Awards, MTV Video Music Awards and American Music Awards.
First SA Bratz celebrity
Adding to the celebrations, Tyla has become the first South African celebrity to receive a Bratz Celebrity Collector doll, according to Baby and Beyond magazine.
The limited-edition collectible, priced at $75 (about R1,200), goes on sale on 27 July through Bratz.com. While fans have welcomed the announcement with excitement, there is no confirmation yet on whether the doll will be available in South African stores.
Tyla now joins an exclusive group of Bratz celebrity collaborators that includes Kylie Jenner, Karol G and Lola Indigo.
The latest honour comes just two years after her Grammy-winning breakthrough with Water, which made her the youngest African artist to win a Grammy Award.
From walking the Victoria’s Secret runway and attending the Met Gala to headlining international charts and now becoming a Bratz icon, Tyla continues to cement her place as one of South Africa’s biggest global music exports. – Fullview/WSAM
