Hollywood icon Will Smith recently shared his thoughts on the current surge in Afrobeats music during a live stream with Canadian streamer xQc, making a special point to praise Tyla, an emerging African pop star, for her pivotal role in bringing the genre into the global spotlight.

Smith’s remarks shed light on the explosive growth of Afrobeats and how the genre has been gaining recognition worldwide, particularly in the United States, Europe, and beyond. However, what stood out most in his conversation was his admiration for Tyla, describing her as an artist who is not just a follower of trends but a creator of them.

Will Smith, known for his long-standing career as an actor, producer, and musician, revealed that he has been deeply invested in world music recently, with a particular focus on the developments in African music. “I’ve been listening to a lot of world music. I love what’s happening in Africa right now—how Afrobeats have started to wake up,” he explained during the stream.

His excitement about the growing influence of African music reflects a broader trend within the music industry, as Afrobeats, once a niche genre, has now become a global phenomenon. The infectious rhythms, energetic beats, and distinctive sound of Afrobeats have become a dominant force in the global music scene, with artists from Africa and the diaspora increasingly dominating charts and stages worldwide.

However, Smith made sure to single out Tyla, one of the rising stars in the Afrobeats movement, for particular praise. He pointed out that despite the widespread recognition of Afrobeats, Tyla’s contributions are often overlooked in the conversation about the genre’s growth. “But we don’t give Tyla enough credit,” Smith stated. “I like what she’s doing. She’s like the first real African pop star.” This statement encapsulates the high regard that Smith holds for the singer, underscoring her groundbreaking influence in bringing African music to the mainstream.

Tyla’s journey in music has been remarkable. A South African-born artist with a distinctive sound blending pop, R&B, and Afrobeats, she has rapidly ascended to global prominence. Over the past few years, Tyla’s career has exploded, and her music has resonated with audiences across various continents. She has captured the attention of music fans and industry professionals alike, and with her unique style, she has become one of the key artists leading the charge for Afrobeats on the global stage.

Will Smith’s words reflect the growing recognition of African artists like Tyla, who are reshaping the global music landscape. While artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido have paved the way for Afrobeats to gain international recognition, Tyla’s contribution cannot be overlooked.

She represents the evolution of Afrobeats beyond its traditional roots, bringing fresh and innovative sounds to the genre and adding a unique pop sensibility that appeals to a broader global audience. Tyla is an artist who is not only part of the Afrobeats movement but also actively shaping it, creating a sound that combines African influences with global pop culture, and establishing herself as a major force in modern pop music.

One of the most remarkable things about Tyla is her ability to transcend musical trends. Unlike many artists who follow popular sounds, Tyla is seen as a trendsetter. “Tyla does not follow trends—she creates them,” Will Smith remarked. This is a crucial point in understanding her influence.

Tyla’s music is forward-thinking and genre-defying. She is blending various styles and sounds, drawing from both African and Western influences, to craft something that feels fresh and exciting. Her ability to take elements from the Afrobeats genre and merge them with other popular styles has made her stand out as an artist with immense potential for global domination.

Afrobeats, which originated in West Africa, has deep roots in traditional African rhythms but has evolved into a genre that incorporates elements of dancehall, hip hop, and pop. It has found widespread appeal due to its infectious energy, catchy melodies, and rich cultural identity. Over the past decade, Afrobeats has exploded in popularity, and artists from the continent, particularly those from Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, have found massive international success.

However, the genre’s rise has not come without challenges. Historically, African music has often been marginalized in the global music industry, and artists from the continent have struggled to gain the same level of recognition as their Western counterparts.

Tyla’s success is a testament to how the world is beginning to recognize the immense talent and creative force coming out of Africa. As Will Smith pointed out, the world has never seen anything like her before. She represents a new wave of African artists who are unapologetically embracing their cultural heritage while also pushing boundaries and creating new sounds that resonate with global audiences. Her success reflects a larger cultural shift toward the acceptance and celebration of African music, not just as a regional genre but as a central force in the global music industry.

The growth of Afrobeats has also been propelled by the increasing presence of African music on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, which have made it easier for artists to connect with international audiences.

Tyla’s music, which blends pop sensibilities with African rhythms, is perfectly suited to this new digital landscape, and she has gained a massive following online. Her songs have garnered millions of streams, and her fanbase continues to grow, thanks to her dynamic social media presence and her innovative approach to music.

What sets Tyla apart from many of her peers is her ability to remain authentic while also appealing to a global audience. Her music speaks to the universal themes of love, empowerment, and resilience, but she is unafraid to incorporate her African identity into every aspect of her art. In doing so, she has become a cultural ambassador for African music, helping to bridge the gap between Africa and the rest of the world.

For Will Smith, who has always been a champion of diverse voices in entertainment, Tyla’s rise is something to celebrate. His admiration for her talent and her contribution to the Afrobeats movement is a recognition of the changing tides in the global music industry.

African artists like Tyla are no longer just a niche market but are central to the global music conversation. With her groundbreaking work, Tyla is helping to shape the future of music and proving that African pop is here to stay.

In conclusion, Tyla’s influence on the global music scene is undeniable. Will Smith’s endorsement of her work highlights the growing recognition of African artists in mainstream music and her role in bringing Afrobeats to the forefront of global pop culture. As Tyla continues to rise, her ability to create new trends and push boundaries will undoubtedly solidify her place as one of the most exciting and influential artists in the world today.