Grammy Award-winning South African superstar Tyla has opened up about the unforgettable moment that sparked her love for Amapiano, revealing that her passion for the genre began during her school days long before she became a global sensation.
Speaking in a recent interview with Brut on TikTok, the “Water” hitmaker reflected on the first time she heard an Amapiano song and explained how the experience completely changed her relationship with music.
Recalling the memory, Tyla said:
“The first time that I heard it I was in class, I was in school. I was doing EGD (Engineering Graphics Design) and one of my friends, Lethabo, he played Gong Gong for the first time. He played it randomly in the class and I just literally stopped working because I was like, ‘What is this song?’ Since that day the long drum just does something to me.”
The heartfelt story has resonated with fans, offering a rare glimpse into the early musical influences that helped shape one of South Africa’s biggest international stars. For Tyla, it was a simple classroom moment that ignited a lifelong appreciation for a genre that would later influence her own sound.
The song she was referring to is “Iskhathi (Gong Gong)” by Kwiish SA featuring Vukani. Released in 2019, the record became one of Amapiano’s defining hits, celebrated for its infectious rhythm and unmistakable long drum—a signature element that Tyla says immediately captivated her.
Today, Tyla has become one of the leading ambassadors of South African music on the global stage. Often referred to as the “Queen of Popiano,” she has built a unique musical identity by blending Amapiano, pop, R&B, and Afrobeats into a sound that has introduced millions of international listeners to South African influences.
Her chart-topping success, including her Grammy-winning career and numerous international accolades, has helped elevate Amapiano’s global profile while remaining proudly connected to her South African roots.
Tyla’s latest revelation also serves as a reminder of the impact music can have in the most unexpected moments. What began as a friend playing a song during an Engineering Graphics Design class eventually became one of the inspirations behind an artist now recognized around the world.
As she prepares for the next chapter of her career, Tyla continues to celebrate the genre that first inspired her. Her story highlights the cultural significance of Amapiano and the way it continues to shape a new generation of artists.
From discovering “Iskhathi (Gong Gong)” in a classroom to becoming one of the world’s biggest stars, Tyla’s journey reflects the extraordinary rise of both the artist and the genre she fell in love with. For her, the unmistakable sound of the long drum remains just as magical today as it was the first time she heard it.
Watch HERE.
