Tyla has released her highly anticipated sophomore album, APOP, continuing her rise as one of South Africa’s most influential global music stars. Released through FAX Records under an exclusive license to Epic Records, the 14-track project blends amapiano, pop, R&B, and other African influences while giving Tyla room to further define the sound that has separated her from many of her contemporaries.
The album arrives more than two years after Tyla’s self-titled debut introduced her sound to audiences around the world. Her official biography describes her music as an innovative combination of pop and R&B energized by the amapiano rhythms of her native South Africa. With APOP*, she builds upon that foundation while presenting herself as a more confident and intentional artist.
Among the album’s recognizable tracks is “CHANEL,” a smooth fusion of R&B, pop, and amapiano that highlights Tyla’s ability to deliver relaxed vocals over rhythm-heavy production. The project also includes “IS IT,” “IS IT LOVE,” “THAT GIRL,” “KISS,” “DOUBLE BLIND,” “FEEL SOMETHING,” “RIGHT NOW,” “MR. NONCHALANT,” and “HOT TUBS.”
Tyla is joined by Zara Larsson on “SHE DID IT AGAIN,” a vibrant collaboration that pushes her music further into international pop without abandoning its African foundation. Other credited guests include Liquideep on “FAIRYTALE,” MaWhoo on “CRAZY OF ME,” and Babalwa M on “I DON’T CARE.” Their appearances strengthen the project’s connection to South African music while adding new voices and textures to Tyla’s evolving style.
The album’s title reflects Tyla’s effort to position African music as an essential part of contemporary pop rather than a separate category. Promotional materials surrounding the release presented the era as African, confident, unapologetic, fun, and global, qualities that can be heard throughout a project driven by warm melodies, layered percussion, dance-ready production, and Tyla’s understated vocal presence. (Pitchfork)
APOP* also finds Tyla approaching her second album with greater clarity following the rapid success of “Water” and her debut project. She previously explained that her first album was completed during a hectic period of sudden international attention, while the new record developed after she had gained a stronger understanding of what she wanted to communicate as an artist.
With APOP*, Tyla continues demonstrating that her appeal extends far beyond one breakthrough single. The album celebrates her South African roots while embracing the scale and ambition of mainstream pop, positioning her as an artist capable of helping shape the next stage of African music’s worldwide growth. The new album is available now through Tyla’s official website and major streaming platforms.
COMMENTS
0