Fresh off a breakout year defined by global tours, genre-shifting DJ sets, and co-signs from the likes of Rihanna, Drake, and Rema, Skyla Tylaa is stepping confidently into her next chapter. Her latest single, “Vele Uyena (Risk It All)”, is more than just a release—it’s a statement. Featuring JAZZWRLD, Thukuthela, Elaine, and Solaariss, the track brings together Amapiano’s emotional core with Afro-electronic textures and a global sensibility that mirrors Skyla’s own journey. Speaking to The Yanos Mag, Skyla describes the record as something that grew organically over time.
1. “Vele Uyena (Risk It All)” is a massive collaboration. What was the original spark behind the track, and what made you choose JAZZWRLD,
I was a big fan of Thukuthela and Jazzwrld, and they sent me this demo with Elaine and I fell in love with it. I’d been playing it throughout the summer and people were loving it. Jazzwrld snd I were tweaking it week after week in between the sets. Snares and even a verse from my saxophonist Solaariss was added in that time. Jazzwrld came to London, that’s when we got in the studio and signed off on the final version.
2. You’ve been road-testing this track in your sets for months. What reactions convinced you that it was finally time to release it officially?
It was Amsterdam. I played the demo at a festival and the whole crowd sang it back, word for word even though the song wasn’t released. That’s when I knew it had to come out.
3. Elaine’s vocals add emotional depth while Solaariss brings his signature sax. How did their contributions shape the final sound?
Elaine’s voice is so beautiful it gives the song its heart. Solaariss brings the soul. We already play the song live together, so having him on the track just made sense. It gives people that same energy they feel at my shows.
4. You grew up surrounded by Funky House, UKG, RnB and Reggae. How do these early influences show up in “Vele Uyena”?
Those genres taught me about rhythm, bass, and emotion, all things that I try to bring into my sets and productions.
5. Your sister Jada has been a major inspiration behind your journey. How has her influence shaped your career path?
Jada is the reason I even stepped into the industry. Watching her work made me believe it was possible for me too. She’s always encouraged me to take risks, stay grounded, and be myself and that’s shaped everything I do.
6. You trained at the BRIT School and the Sylvia Young Theatre School. How has this formal training translated into your DJ and performance style today?
Both schools taught me discipline, stage presence, and confidence. Even though I’m a DJ now, performing still requires confidence and connection.
7. Your turning point happened in Ghana, hearing Amapiano “in its rawest form” in Wizkid’s studio. What about that moment shifted your direction?
It was hearing Amapiano exactly how it’s meant to be experienced, not online, not watered down, but in its rawest, purest form. I was sick at the time and when I heard it for the first time it made me forget about how I felt, it’s something that will stick with me forever.
8. You’ve been mentored by DJ Tunez, Maphorisa, Uncle Vinny and Major League DJz. What valuable lessons have each of them taught you?
DJ Tunez taught me about professionalism and consistency. Maphorisa taught me to trust the culture and respect the roots. Uncle Vinny showed me the importance of connecting with the people. Major League DJz pushed me musically, every morning in SA they’d have me practising on the decks. They really shaped my understanding of the sound.
9. From opening for Wizkid in 2023 to touring globally – was there a moment when you realized your life had changed forever?
Opening for Wizkid was definitely the moment. He believed in me early and took me on tour, which changed everything. And the fact he still comes to all my headline shows reminds me how far things have come.
10. You’ve played everywhere from UK clubs to New York basements to African mega-stages. Which performance environment pushes you the most creatively?
Africa, 100%. The energy there is unmatched. You can’t replicate it anywhere else. When you play Amapiano in South Africa, surrounded by people who live and breathe the culture, it pushes you to be your best self creatively.
11. You’ve been championed by Mixmag, Hunger, Wonderland, Dazed and many others. How has this visibility influenced your artistic journey?
I’m so grateful for all those accolades. It motivates me to keep going and makes me feel like I’m on the right path.
12. With co-signs from Rihanna, Drake, and Rema, how do you stay grounded amidst such global recognition?
I stay grounded because my life hasn’t changed in the ways that matter, my family, my friends, and my values are the same. The support is incredible, but I try not to overthink it. I just keep working.
13. The Amapiano movement keeps expanding internationally. How do you see your sound evolving within this global wave?
I’m always evolving and learning and trying to better myself. Every day I learn something new and hopefully just continue to pay homage to such a beautiful genre.
14. As a woman thriving in a male-dominated DJ/producer space, what message do you hope your success sends to young girls and women?
That we can do everything men can do, and most of the time even better. We have our own power. We can show up, own the stage, and still deliver. I want young girls to see me and know they don’t have to shrink themselves to belong here.
15. Looking ahead, do you see yourself expanding into production, curation, fashion, tech, or mentorship as part of your long-term vision?
Absolutely. I want to expand into production more, curate events, build spaces for women in music, and explore fashion. I love the idea of mentoring new DJs, especially young girls who need someone to show them it’s possible. This is only the beginning there’s so much more I want to create.
Make sure to stream “Vele Uyena (Risk It All)” on all digital platforms HERE.
