When Tyla took home her second Grammy earlier this year, she made a statement that set the tone for her next era. Backstage, she revealed the name of her highly anticipated sophomore album: A*POP.
The title carries a thesis: African music is pop music, period.
Following the massive global success of her self-titled 2024 debut—and the viral wave of "Water"—the South African star was faced with the ultimate second-album test: How do you stay rooted in your origin sound while maintaining global pop momentum? With APOP*, Tyla gives her answer over 14 carefully crafted tracks.
Reclaiming the Narrative & Bringing It Back Home
One of the most interesting choices Tyla makes on APOP* is in the credits. While her debut featured high-profile international crossovers (like Travis Scott, Gunna, and Becky G), APOP* flips the lens back home.
Instead of chasing heavy Western feature lists, Tyla brings prominent South African voices into the spotlight—collaborating with artists like MaWhoo, Babalwa M, and legendary house duo Liquideep. Swedish pop star Zara Larsson serves as the sole Western feature on the sharp, dancehall-infused track "She Did It Again".
By leaning heavily into home-grown talent, Tyla challenges the narrow idea of what a "global crossover" record needs to look like. She isn't diluting her signature Popiano—the seamless blend of Amapiano log drums, R&B melodies, and sleek pop arrangements—she’s doubling down on it.
Standout Tracks to Put on Repeat
- "IS IT LOVE" – The opening track sets an intimate, vocal-forward mood. Riding over warm Amapiano log drums and soft guitar riffs, Tyla explores the vulnerability of modern romance.
- "CHANEL" – Sleek, infectious, and packed with charm, this highlight single showcases Tyla’s effortless vocal control and effortless flex.
- "SHE DID IT AGAIN" (feat. Zara Larsson) – A fiery, dancehall-tinged anthem where Tyla and Zara match energy over punchy percussion.
- "FAIRYTALE" (feat. Liquideep) – Easily one of the album’s most nostalgic moments, pairing Tyla’s silky vocals with soulful house production.
The Verdict
APOP* shows an artist who knows her vocal strengths and understands her core audience. While some listeners might wish for even bolder sonic risks, Tyla delivers a cohesive, warm, and highly replayable project that proudly centers African rhythms on the global stage.