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Tyla on Fame, Criticism and Knowing Who She Is

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When Tyla appeared on the cover of Glamour’s Women of the Year issue, she was already one of South Africa’s most recognisable artists. The Johannesburg-born singer had just made history as the first African artist to win a Grammy for Best African Music Performance with her global hit, Water. But the interview showed another side of her: one that deals with fame and scrutiny away from the stage.

Tyla – Instagram

“I realised that people just like to talk,” she told Glamour. “That’s just my life now.” It’s a calm response from someone who has learned to live with the constant attention that comes with international fame. Tyla’s social media presence and fast rise have made her a subject of endless commentary, but she doesn’t let it change her approach. “What’s the point of life if everything is based on what other people think about you?” she said.

The 23-year-old often links her attitude to how she grew up. “We were outside every day, in the grass, in the streets,” she recalled in the same interview. “We’d sell clothes on the road, buy sweets, then do it again tomorrow.” Her background in Johannesburg, she explained, taught her how to stay grounded and work hard. Those values still guide her today.

Tyla – Instagram

That confidence has also been tested in the public eye. Earlier this year, a discussion around her identity gained attention online when Tyla described herself as a “coloured woman.” The term, common in South Africa, carries different meaning in other countries and sparked debate among international fans.

Tyla later explained that both sides of her identity are valid. “I know I’m a Black woman and I know I’m a coloured woman as well, and you can be both,” she said in a statement quoted by Blavity. She also clarified that she doesn’t expect people outside South Africa to identify her the same way. “In South Africa, I’m coloured. And I’m a Black woman too.”

Tyla – Instagram

Her words reflect the complexity of South African identity and how it can be misunderstood globally. Through it all, Tyla seems unfazed, focused on her music and her sense of self. “When who you are is challenged, it shakes you,” she said. “You want to stand your ground, because if you don’t, someone else will try to define it for you.”

At just 23, Tyla is learning to navigate global fame while holding on to where she comes from. And she’s doing it on her own terms.

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Janet and Jermaine Jackson Disagree Over Biopic Accuracy at ‘Michael’ Private Screening

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Photo Credit - Instagram

A private screening of the film Michael reportedly exposed tensions within the Jackson family after Janet Jackson and her brother Jermaine Jackson disagreed over how their brother Michael Jackson is portrayed in the biopic.

The screening took place in Los Angeles and was attended by more than 60 members of the Jackson family and close associates. The project has received attention partly because the lead role is played by Jaafar Jackson, who portrays his uncle in his first major acting role.

Janet Jackson – Instagram

According to media reports, the mood during the screening was initially positive as family members watched scenes depicting Michael Jackson’s early years performing with his brothers before his rise to global pop stardom.

The tone reportedly changed once the film ended and conversations about the production began. Sources present at the event said Janet Jackson expressed strong reservations about the film, questioning the acting, the make-up design and how parts of Michael Jackson’s life were depicted.

Sources said her criticism was unusually direct for a private family gathering, criticising several scenes and raising concerns about the accuracy of the story.

Jermaine Jackson – Instagram

Jermaine Jackson, who has been involved in the project and whose son plays the lead role, reportedly responded by defending the film. He pushed back against his sister’s comments and argued that the film is a tribute to their brother.

The exchange reportedly caused tension among relatives who had expected the screening to be a celebratory preview rather than a debate over the film’s accuracy. Some reports described the disagreement as a heated argument that briefly disrupted the gathering.

The biopic Michael is one of the most expensive films made about the singer, with a reported budget of about $155 million. The production follows Michael Jackson’s life from his childhood in Gary, Indiana, through his rise to global fame.

Jaafar Jackson – Instagram

Casting Jaafar Jackson has been a key part of the film. Some viewers have pointed to his resemblance to his uncle and his ability to recreate many of the singer’s stage movements and performance style.

The film arrives at a time when Michael Jackson’s legacy continues to generate debate, particularly around how different periods of his life should be portrayed.

The reported disagreement at the screening has increased attention on the film as its release approaches.

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Jill Scott Announces ‘To Who This May Concern’ Tour, Including South Africa

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Photo: Getty Images

Jill Scott has announced her To Whom This May Concern” World Tour, returning to the stage globally. The tour follows her newly released album.

The 36-date tour that will take place in North America, Europe, the United Kingdom, and Africa. The shows will start on June 4, 2026 in Nashville, United States.  South Africa will be the final destination, where she will perform in Pretoria and Cape Town in November.

Jill Scott:Getty Images

In announcing the tour, Scott emphasized the importance of live performance and connecting with fans. She explained that music is meant to be experienced together. The concerts will feature live band arrangements and musical moments

Read Also: Asake Heads to South Africa: Everything to Know About His First-Ever Johannesburg Show

The North American leg  include stops in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, and Philadelphia. After completion, Scott will travel to Europe and the United Kingdom before continuing to Africa.

Photo: Instagram

Ticket sales will be in stages, starting with artist presales before general public access. Major touring partners are supporting the production, which shows the international appeal of this concert.

Jill Scott: Getty images

Asides from promoting new music, the tour also celebrates Scott’s enduring legacy in soul and R&B music. Since her debut in 2000, she has earned multiple awards for her music. With the “To Whom This May Concern” tour, Scott will perform for audiences worldwide.

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Nadia Nakai Speaks on Moving Forward After AKA, Igniting Online Debate

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Photo:Instagram

Nadia Nakai has spoken about moving forward with her life following the death of her late partner, AKA. Her comments, made during an appearance on the L‑Tido Podcast, circulated across social media and there were mixed reactions from fans.

During the interview, Nakai talked about the grief she experienced after AKA’s death in 2023 and explained that she has healed. According to her, the public expects her to remain defined by that loss, but she wants to move on.

One of the remarks that brought the strongest reaction online came when Nakai said she did not want to “spend the rest of my life loving a ghost.”

Nadia and AKA: Instagram

Nakai explained that she has taken time to mourn but now feels it’s time to find love again. She added that she does not want to be judged for wanting a future filled with happiness. In the interview, she stressed that grief does not mean someone must stop living their life. She hopes to eventually find a life partner and build a future together.

Read Also: Nadia Nakai Breaks the Internet with Bold ‘No-underwear’ Denim Outfit

Part of the controversy also came from a Valentine’s Day post involving Toss. Photos and videos of the two appearing close sparked dating rumors online. Nakai clarified that the images were part of a music video shoot and not that they are in a romantic relationship.

Nadia Nakai:Instagram

Some of the comments circulating on X included reactions such as:

So Nadia Nakai wasn’t supposed to move on according to some of you huh?”

Another X post said::

“She really grieved that man, and we all saw her grieve.  If it was a man, there wouldn’t be this much scrutiny, had he moved on even 2 months after..”

Other users argued that the rapper had already shown respect and loyalty after AKA’s death and should be allowed to live her life freely. Nakai also reacted to the public conversation around her personal life, saying many people seem to forget she was successful before her relationship with AKA.

Despite the controversy, Nakai looks focused on her life. As the debate continues online, her comments have sparked a wider conversation about whether public figures should move on after a loss.

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