Tyla, the 23-year-old “Water” sensation, has finally spoken out about the absurd backlash she’s been getting—because apparently, the internet has nothing better to do. In a new British Vogue cover story, she tackled very serious topics, such as:
– Why people were pressed about her handing her MTV VMA award to Lil Nas X
– How her hair and skin got her bullied as a kid
– A resurfaced TikTok video that had fans in their feelings
– The tragedy of losing her anonymity (and her ability to peacefully enjoy chicken at Nando’s)
Let’s dive into the drama, shall we?
On the VMAs and the Scandalous Trophy Pass-Off
Tyla is so sorry for not having the upper-body strength of a professional weightlifter, okay? When people accused her of being “entitled” for handing her award to Lil Nas X, she was baffled.
“Guys, those awards are ridiculously heavy! I didn’t want to be up there looking like I was in an intense arm workout while giving my speech,” she explained.
Honestly, can we get MTV to do a weight reduction on those things? Maybe a travel-size version?
On Being Bullied for Her Hair and Skin
Tyla went to a predominantly white primary school, and let’s just say… it was not giving self-love.
“I really hated myself,” she admitted. But then, high school rolled around, and BAM—Blackness, culture, and the ultimate glow-up. “That’s where I actually grew to love myself,” she said.
Moral of the story? Representation matters, and sometimes you just need to switch up your environment to find your confidence.
On the TikTok Video That Had the Internet in a Frenzy
Back in 2020, Tyla referred to herself as “a coloured South African” in a TikTok video, and social media did not let it slide.
“Honestly, I felt like I had no control. People ran with it, and it spiraled,” she said. “I get that the word is sensitive for some, so I don’t blame people for reacting. But I just wish I had the chance to actually explain.”
Translation: Twitter detectives were on her neck, and she just wanted to have a rational conversation.
On Rihanna Being That Girl
Before making it big, Tyla thought you had to be American to become a global superstar. Then, Rihanna entered the chat.
“Seeing her succeed, coming from outside the States, made me realize there’s another way,” she said.
Tyla, if you’re reading this—yes, you are also that girl.
On Navigating the Industry as a Young Woman in the #MeToo Era
Tyla’s parents don’t play at all. Even before she blew up, they made sure she never went to the studio alone.
“They’ve always been very protective,” she said.
Good parents for the win!
On Having 24/7 Security and the Loss of Her Nando’s Freedom
Look, fame has its perks, but it also means you can’t just roll up to Nando’s in peace.
“Sometimes I even cry about it,” she admitted. “I just miss being able to walk. Or sit in the park. Or go to Nando’s.”
Apparently, last time she tried to get her peri-peri fix, the entire restaurant erupted into a group performance of “Make Me Sweat…”
Honestly, at that point, Nando’s should’ve comped her meal.
