South African songstress Tyla, born Tyla Laura Seethal, opened up about the challenges she faced in pursuing her music career, revealing a significant hurdle in gaining her parents’ support.

Convincing her parents about her passion for music wasn’t an easy feat for Tyla. She recounted how her parents initially opposed her aspirations to become a musician, viewing music as more of a hobby than a viable profession. Their reluctance stemmed from the perception that music wasn’t a legitimate job.

In a candid discussion with Power 106 FM in Los Angeles, USA, Tyla shared, “My parents weren’t overly strict about my choices, but they were adamant about me heading to the studio instead of seeking traditional employment. They firmly believed that music was merely a hobby, not a career path.”

Tyla elaborated on the emotional struggle she faced, saying, “I found myself in a situation where I had to plead my case every single day, expressing my unwavering commitment to pursuing music as my sole passion. Convincing them was an uphill battle, particularly because in South Africa, success in music isn’t guaranteed. Many aspiring female musicians have faced challenges in achieving their dreams, and my parents, out of concern, were trying to shield me from potential disappointment.”

Despite the initial skepticism from her parents, Tyla persevered in demonstrating her dedication to music. She acknowledged their protective instincts but remained resolute in proving her determination to pursue a career in the music industry. Her unwavering commitment eventually led her parents to relent and support her pursuit of music wholeheartedly.

Recently, the South African pop star also made a visit to musician and media personality Jennifer Hudson’s television show, ‘The Jennifer Hudson Show’, discuss the global success of her Billboard Hot 100 charting single ‘Water’.

During a snippet of the interview posted on YouTube, Hudson started off by asking Tyla where she was when she got the news of the nomination.

“I was in my hotel room in New York and I literally didn’t expect it at all,” she said.

“My label was like just watch the live stream, maybe you’ll get nominated. So I watched the thing from the beginning and when I was so my name, yoh, I jumped up. I was screaming, it’s crazy, I can’t believe it.”

After congratulating her on her success, Hudson asked her how it feels to be representing her country at a global level.

“Yoh, it feels so good,” she said, like a true South African. “I’ve always wanted to have a South African on the same stages as the greats.

“So I just feel like that’s the goal and I really wanna become an example for other African artists wanting to do the same.”

The 21-year-old then shared what she feels is different about South African music and American music.

“I feel like South African music is just different, it’s more spiritual, I feel. It makes you wanna dance no matter what we’re singing about. It can be a very sad song but you’re on the dance floor.”

Tyla went on to teach Hudson how to do her viral ‘Water’ dance challenge, which Hudson failed dismally at.

‘Water’ also reached a new peak of number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 this week.