South African superstar Tyla is set to make history as she becomes the first African and South African honouree to receive the prestigious Billboard Impact Award at the 2025 Billboard Women in Music event in Los Angeles, California. This groundbreaking recognition further cements her status as one of the most influential young artists in the global music industry.
The annual Billboard Women in Music event celebrates rising talents—artists, creators, producers, and executives—whose contributions have significantly shaped the music landscape worldwide. Past honourees include icons such as Alicia Keys, Solange, and H.E.R., and now Tyla joins these luminaries, highlighting her remarkable impact.
Tyla, who celebrated her 23rd birthday in January, burst onto the international scene with her unique blend of Amapiano and pop-infused sound. She first captured attention in 2019 with her debut single, “Getting Late,” but it was her viral hit “Water” in 2023 that truly catapulted her into the global spotlight. The success of “Water” not only earned her a spot on the Billboard Hot 100—making her the second African female artist to achieve this feat since Miriam Makeba—but also garnered her the first-ever Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance in 2024, making her the youngest artist in Africa to win a Grammy.
Set to take place on March 29, 2025, the Billboard Women in Music ceremony promises to be a night of celebration and inspiration. As Tyla prepares to step onto the global stage, her Impact Award serves as a powerful testament to her relentless hard work and innovative artistry. While many fans and industry insiders are celebrating this monumental achievement, the announcement has sparked mixed reactions on social media. When X user @PopCrave broke the news, discussions ignited across platforms, with some critics questioning the decision while supporters hailed it as long overdue.
As the countdown to the 2025 Billboard Women in Music event begins, Tyla’s groundbreaking achievement is set to inspire a new generation of African musicians. With her innovative sound and unwavering determination, Tyla is not only redefining the global music scene but also proving that authenticity and talent know no boundaries. Stay tuned for what promises to be a historic night in music.
Tyla to receive the Impact award at Billboard’s Women in Music event. pic.twitter.com/lg6AaeAQj9
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) February 12, 2025
