Tyla Credits Brenda Fassie and Lebo Mathosa as Her Pop Icons

South African pop sensation Tyla is enjoying a period of global recognition, Grammy attention, and international acclaim. Even at the peak of her fame, she acknowledges the artists who shaped her musical identity. In a recent GLAMOUR Girlhood Q&A, Tyla revealed that her early influences included two South African icons: Brenda Fassie and Lebo Mathosa.

“I really admired Brenda Fassie and Lebo Mathosa,” Tyla said. “They were like our pop stars.” For those raised in South African households, Fassie’s “Vul’indlela” at family events or Mathosa’s daring music videos served as templates for confidence, style, and unapologetic energy.

Brenda Fassie, often called the Madonna of the Townships, was a cultural revolutionary. Her powerful voice, fearless lyrics, and rebellious energy made her a defining figure in South African pop. She connected deeply with audiences, becoming a voice for her generation.

Lebo Mathosa, the golden-haired star of Boom Shaka, carried Y2K-era attitude with sultry pop and bold performance style. She pushed boundaries and showed that local female talent could achieve international recognition.

Tyla credits these trailblazers for inspiring her path. “Their music was just so infectious; it was everywhere in South Africa. And they were women, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” she said. Through their influence, Tyla continues the legacy of fearless South African female performers, blending pop and amapiano to carve her own global footprint.