In a breathtaking night filled with stars, South African Amapiano sensation Tyla shone the brightest when she clinched a Grammy for her globally acclaimed single “Water.” This win not only catapulted her to international fame but also marked an unforgettable moment for her family. In an exclusive response shared with Vanity Fair, Tyla opened up about the emotional reaction from her parents, who were not just attendees but central figures in her triumphant Grammy experience.
Tyla’s ascent in the music industry has been nothing short of meteoric, with “Water” making waves beyond the borders of her home country, echoing through the global music scene. But the highlight of her journey was undoubtedly the Grammy Awards, where her parents joined her, making their first trip to America—a momentous occasion that they would remember forever.
“When I won, I was in front of that mic with nothing prepared, but there was a sense of peace,” Tyla described her moment of victory. Unscripted and genuine, she stood before the world, a beacon of youthful exuberance and raw talent. It was a testament to her authentic connection with her music and her roots.
The real emotional weight of the moment was felt backstage. Tyla’s mother, overwhelmed with joy and pride, couldn’t hold back tears, while her father’s smile could light up the darkest room. This poignant scene encapsulated the deep emotional investment her parents had in her dreams and the shared joy of seeing those dreams come to fruition. “They came to America for the first time and it was the best day ever,” Tyla reflected, underscoring the profound significance of the occasion not just for her career but for her family as well.
The celebration didn’t stop at the award ceremony. The Grammy win turned into a spontaneous, joyous family event as they drove back, blasting “Water” in the car. The hit song, which had already touched so many around the world, now carried an even deeper meaning for Tyla and her family. It was a celebratory anthem, a symbol of victory and a reminder of the journey that brought them to this point.