Celebrity News
Tyla on Fame, Criticism and Knowing Who She Is
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.
The 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32) brought South Africa’s music industry together at the Sun City Superbowl in the North West on August 15. There were several key moments that stood out during the event.
Anele Zondo and L-Tido’s Kiss
Photo: Instagram
Anele Zondo and L-Tido shared a kiss on stage while presenting the Best Amapiano Album award. The kiss quickly became a talking point online. The two have been making headlines since confirming their relationship after months of speculation.
Read Also: Thandiswa Mazwai Wins Four SAMA Awards for Sankofa
Some Major Stars Were Missing
The absence of major names such as Kabza De Small, Nasty C, DJ Maphorisa and Umafikizolo became one of the talking points at SAMA32. Kabza won Best Amapiano Album but was not there to collect his award, Umafikizolo also missed the ceremony despite winning Album of the Year.
Tyla’s Speech on Stage
Photo: Instagram
Tyla was honoured with the AfriPure International Achievement Award. During her acceptance speech, Tyla spoke about how she looked forward to attending the SAMAs. She also talked about her South African roots and called for unity in the continent. Tyla invited Cassper Nyovest, Makhadzi and Zee Nxumalo.
Cassper Nyovest Steps Up as Host
Photo: Instagram
Cassper Nyovest co-hosted the event with Zanele Potelwa. His appointment sparked interest, given his previous disputes with the awards, and he joined Lordkez for a performance.
From an unexpected onstage kiss to Tyla’s call for African unity, SAMA32 delivered several moments that extended beyond the night’s awards.
Lamiez Holworthy-Morule has been taken to hospital where she is undergoing an operation. Her management confirmed the news, saying her condition is not life-threatening.
The incident has forced Lamiez to put her professional commitments on hold. She was scheduled to attend several events in August, but they are all on hold.
According to a statement from her management, Lamiez required urgent medical attention. However, no details are given.
Photo: Instagram/@lamiez_holworthy
Her management has confirmed that the situation is stable, although time is needed further to recuperate fully. They said:
“Lamiez Holworthy was rushed to hospital and required an emergency surgical procedure,”
Event promoters, organisers, clients and partners involved in her upcoming bookings will need to adjust their plans following the unexpected medical emergency.
Read Also: Mihlali Ndamase Wears Plunging Gown for a Beauty Photoshoot
Meanwhile, management said events cancelled will be rescheduled once Lamiez has recovered. The new dates will depend on when she is cleared by the medical staff authorities. Their statement reads:
“This will affect remaining events tonight and on August 10…. “
Photo: Instagram/@lamiez_holworthy
Furthermore, fans have shown concern since the news became public. There have been several messages of support and good. wishes shared online. Teboho Matima tweeted:
“Wish you a speedy recovery soon 🙏 our entertainer”
However, Lamiez’s management has not disclosed additional medical information. They request for understanding saying:
“We kindly ask that her privacy be respected.. .”
The entertainer’s temporary break from work shows the uncertainty that can come with an emergency medical situation. Despite having a busy professional calendar, her aim is recovering from the surgery.
Bonang Matheba will receive the Trailblazer Award at the 2026 Basadi in Music Awards to recognise her contribution to South African entertainment.
The ceremony will be hosted by Anele Zondo, Moozlie, Unathi, and Lerato Kganyago. This 2026 ceremony marks the fifth edition and is now a two-night celebration. The Vanguard Circle and Main Awards are part of the event.
Artists that will perform at the event include : Lira, Kelly Khumalo, Nothando Hlophe, MaWhoo, Thatohatsi, and Makhadzi. For Artist of the Year, Tyla, Ayra Starr, MaWhoo are among the top nominees.
Photo: Instagram
Responding to the award, Matheba said;
“Thank you to the Basadi in Music Awards for this incredible honour. To be recognised alongside women who’ve shaped this industry is a privilege I don’t take for granted.”
Matheba became the first South African celebrity to launch an online reality show and was named one of Forbes’ 50 Most Powerful Women in Africa.
Read Also: Bonang Matheba Makes a Statement in Pink Gucci at the 2026 Zeitz MOCCA Gala
Matheba has attended various international events. Some events she attended are the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity (2026) and Miss Cosmo Grand Finale in Vietnam (2025)
The organisers have introduced a Pan-African expansion for the fifth edition. Selected categories allow artists, creators, and other professionals beyond South Africa to participate.
Photo:Instagram
The main awards feature 28 categories covering different areas. Public voting for the competitive categories has closed, with the results verified before the ceremony.
According to the Basadi in Music Awards rules, the organisers can give additional honorary awards through a special committee. The award will be presented during the ceremony at Joburg Theatre on August 8. The theme is Rewind and the campaign Africa to the World.
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