Renowned Hollywood actor and musician Will Smith has showered accolades on South African singer Tyla, acknowledging her as the first “real African pop star” and expressing admiration for her music.
During a live stream on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, with Canadian influencer and former professional Overwatch player Félix Lengyel, popularly known as xQc, Smith spoke highly of Africa’s growing music influence, particularly the global rise of Afrobeats.
“I love what’s happening in Africa now—how Afrobeats is starting to wake up,” he stated. Will Smith then singled out Tyla for her remarkable achievements, adding, “I love what Tyla’s doing. She’s like the first REAL African pop star we’ve had in that way.”
Tyla, known for her hit song Water and her fusion of Afrobeats with pop elements, has gained international recognition, earning accolades such as a Grammy award and chart-topping success. Smith’s endorsement further cements her position as one of Africa’s leading musical exports.
His remarks have sparked excitement among fans, many of whom see it as proof of Tyla’s growing impact on the global music scene.
Will Smith gives Tyla her flowers pic.twitter.com/cvku2WGYLA
— ★ (@tylasgirl) February 20, 2025