Calling all Tygers! Tyla is British Vogue’s March Cover Star

Summary

The Run-Through with Vogue: Episode Summary

Episode Title: Calling all Tygers! Tyla is British Vogue’s March Cover Star
Release Date: February 20, 2025
Hosts: Chioma Nnadi (Head of British Vogue) and Chloe Malle (Editor of Vogue.com)
Guest: Tyla, British Vogue’s March Cover Star

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1. Episode Overview

In this vibrant episode of The Run-Through with Vogue, hosts Chioma Nnadi and Chloe Malle dive deep into the latest happenings within the Vogue universe. The conversation seamlessly transitions from recent high-profile events like the BAFTAs and Saturday Night Live's 50th Anniversary to an exclusive interview with Tyla, British Vogue’s March cover star. The episode is a blend of fashion insights, celebrity news, and an intimate look into Tyla's burgeoning career.

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2. Celebrating the New British Vogue Cover

Choma Nnadi expresses her enthusiasm about Tyla’s first Vogue cover, emphasizing its vibrant and celebratory nature.

Choma Nnadi [00:28]: "I really love how it pops... Tyler was such a joy to work with. She just has, like, star power."

She highlights the collaborative atmosphere on set, noting Tyla's dedication and the creative input from Raf Pavarotti, the photographer.

Choma Nnadi [00:42]: "Anything that the photographer wanted to do, she did... There was all this kind of artificial rain in the studio."

Liam Hess adds his admiration for the dynamic on-set experience, noting how the energy translated into the final photos.

Liam Hess [01:35]: "Sometimes when you see a shoot, you can see it was an exciting, dynamic, collaborative on set experience."

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3. Highlights from Recent High-Profile Events

The hosts and their guest, Fumi Feto, discuss a whirlwind of events that unfolded over the weekend:

• BAFTAs Afterparty: Choma hosted the unofficial official BAFTAs afterparty, featuring stars like Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Cynthia Erivo, and Harris Dickinson. The event was filled with glamour and accolades, including Adrien Brody proudly showcasing his BAFTA award.

  Choma Nnadi [08:19]: "Our hosts, Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Cynthia Erivo, and Harris Dickinson... Two of them won BAFTAs."

• Saturday Night Live's 50th Anniversary: Celebrated with a grand concert at Radio City Music Hall, featuring performances by Cher, Backstreet Boys, and other iconic artists. The event culminated in a black-tie special at Studio 8H, honoring Lorne Michaels with nostalgic performances and reunions.

  Choma Nnadi [11:30]: "Can we talk about Emma Stone's popcorn dress?... it's funny, it's SNL."

• White Lotus Premiere in Bangkok: Liam Hess, the Living Editor, provided an exclusive recap of the premiere held in Bangkok, highlighting the star-studded event and the overwhelming popularity of Lisa from Blackpink in her native Thailand.

  Fumi Feto [03:42]: "Lisa from Blackpink... people were screaming for her... an army of security guards."

Fumi Feto shares anecdotes from the premiere, including interactions with stars like Patrick Schwarzenegger and the unique challenges of filming in Thailand's heat without air conditioning.

Fumi Feto [06:55]: "They were filming scenes... in their beds in like 30, well, 35 degree heat."

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4. Exclusive Interview with Tyla: British Vogue’s March Cover Star

The heart of the episode is an in-depth conversation with Tyla, exploring her journey, artistry, and experiences leading up to her Vogue cover debut.

a. The Vogue Cover Shoot

Choma Nnadi praises Tyla’s energy and collaborative spirit during the shoot.

Choma Nnadi [18:07]: "You brought so much energy... playful... totally out of this world."

Tyla shares her excitement and the fun atmosphere on set, working closely with Raf Pavarotti and feeling integral to the creative process.

Tyla [18:43]: "I felt really like in it. So on the day, it was fun to just play with everybody and, yeah, just have fun."

b. Tyla’s Rise in the Music Industry

Choma delves into Tyla's impressive achievements, including her Grammy win and the release of her debut album.

Choma Nnadi [24:18]: "You were the youngest African artist to win a Grammy in 2024... what's that experience been like for you?"

Tyla reflects on the highs and challenges of sudden fame, emphasizing the support from her sister and crew.

Tyla [24:18]: "There's a lot of difficult things... but the upsides are just... I just love it."

c. Balancing Fame and Personal Life

Tyla discusses the importance of her sister in keeping her grounded amidst the whirlwind of success.

Tyla [26:05]: "Having my sister with me is really fun because she's also able to check me when I need to be checked."

She recounts memorable moments from performances, particularly her emotional connection to Johannesburg.

Tyla [28:22]: "I really wanted to do something for South Africa, for home, for Africa... the show out was literally insane."

d. Musical Influences and Future Projects

Choma and Tyla explore her musical roots and her vision for future projects beyond music, including acting and fashion collaborations.

Choma Nnadi [35:20]: "Do you have an idea of what your sort of dream project would be?"

Tyla [47:04]: "I really want to act... create a few pieces in collaboration with a brand I really love."

She emphasizes her desire to blur genre lines and maintain creative freedom.

Tyla [34:59]: "Who cares what box it's in? If it's good, it's good."

e. Fashion Forward: Tyla’s Style Evolution

Choma highlights Tyla’s fearless approach to fashion, referencing her iconic Baumau look at the Met Gala.

Choma Nnadi [38:19]: "You went viral with that look... you really went viral with that look."

Tyla discusses her evolving relationship with fashion, integrating it more deeply into her music and performances.

Tyla [39:44]: "I'm incorporating it more in my world, in my creative and with my music."

She candidly shares her fashion regrets, showcasing her authentic and ever-evolving style.

Tyla [42:03]: "Have a lot of fashion regrets... but it's okay."

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5. Fashion Insights and Upcoming Releases

The episode also touches upon ongoing fashion trends and upcoming collaborations. Tyla hints at her aspirations to create a perfume line and expand her influence in the fashion industry.

Tyla [48:09]: "I really want to create like a few pieces in collaboration with this brand I really love... like some lip gloss, body oil."

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6. Conclusion and Production Credits

The episode wraps up with acknowledgments of the production team and a final nod to eBay's advertisement, seamlessly integrating sponsorship messages into the content flow.

Choma Nnadi [50:41]: "EBay. Things people love."

Production Team:
Produced by Chelsea Daniel, Alex DePalma, and Joanna Solotaro. Engineered by Jake Loomis, Luke Moseley, and James Yost. Mixed by Mike Kutchman. Executive Producer: Stephanie Karaoke. Head of Global Audio: Chris Bannon.

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7. Key Takeaways

• Tyla's Ascension: From her Grammy win to her debut on the British Vogue cover, Tyla exemplifies the modern artist balancing immense success with personal authenticity.

• Dynamic Events Coverage: The episode provides an exclusive look into major cultural events, highlighting the interconnectedness of fashion, music, and film.

• Fashion and Music Fusion: Tyla's journey illustrates the seamless blend of fashion and music, showcasing how artists today are redefining their creative expressions across multiple platforms.

• Future Endeavors: With aspirations in acting and fashion collaborations, Tyla is poised to continue her trajectory as a multifaceted superstar.

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Stay tuned to The Run-Through with Vogue for more exclusive interviews, fashion insights, and the latest in the world of Vogue.

Transcript

[Chloe]

This episode of the Run through is.

[Choma Nadi]

Brought to you by eBay. EBay.

[Chloe]

It's the place to fall in love with new pre loved vintage and rare fashion over and over again. Your favorite designers expertly authenticated.

[Choma Nadi]

Yeah, ebay.

[Chloe]

Things people love.

[Liam Hess]

I'm Chloe.

[Choma Nadi]

And I'm Choma Nadi. And you're listening to the Run Through.

[Liam Hess]

Congratulations on one of my favorite British Vogue covers yet. It is just such a fabulous graphic celebration. It feels like a party and a cover.

[Choma Nadi]

Oh, thanks. I feel the same. I really love, like, I just love how it pops, you know, I think. And Tyler was such. She was such a joy to work with. She just has, like, star power. And it's so fantastic to. To sort of meet someone and see someone at that stage in their career when they're just sort of fizzing with, like, excitement and just constantly looking around and being like, wow, pinch me. Like, I'm doing my dreams a reality. It was just so fun. She gave so much of her time and she was there on the set until 10:30pm like, anything that the photographer wanted to do, she did. Like, Raf Pavarotti is incredible photographer we've been wanting to work with for a while. He had the crazy suggestion of, like, filming her, like, you know, under rain. So there was all this kind of artificial rain in the studio.

[Liam Hess]

There was rain in the studio?

[Choma Nadi]

Mm.

[Liam Hess]

Sometimes when you see a shoot, you can see it was an exciting, dynamic, collaborative on set experience. And that's what you get from these photos. They just seem like everyone really was having a great time.

[Choma Nadi]

Yeah. And on today's show, we actually have my colleague Fumi Feto, who wrote the COVID story. She went. She traveled to South Africa to do it. Oh, wow. Yeah. Which was so cool. She went to a Tyler concert there, which was, you know, I mean, people were bouncing off the wall. They call the Tyler fans tigers. Oh, cute. So we spoke to Tyler together and, yeah, it was a real treat.

[Liam Hess]

I'm so excited to hear your conversation. But first, Choma, this was a very packed weekend. I don't know if you felt that way. I think you did.

[Choma Nadi]

I did.

[Liam Hess]

But there was the BAFTAs, which you hosted the party for. There was the Saturday Night Live's 50th anniversary spectacular, which was events over two nights. There was the White Lotus premiere in Bangkok on hbo. And we are very lucky because our very own Liam Hess, living editor, attended the premiere in Thailand and had the exclusive American press access. Liam, I want to hear everything. Set the scene for you and the cast of Wade Lotus in Bangkok.

[Fumi Feto]

I mean, I have to say, as a fan of the show, it was probably the fastest yes. I've ever said to any invite ever. It was so exciting. But yeah, and it was a real extravaganza. They really laid on everything for this premiere. They took over the four seasons in Bangkok, which is the. To the one that's in the show, which is actually in Koh Samui. And all of the cast were around and about. You could see them kind of having breakfast together and catching up, or Parker Posey swanning through the corridors, her mumu kind of trailing behind her.

[Choma Nadi]

I would have traveled to Bangkok just to see that.

[Fumi Feto]

Yeah, she is one of a kind, truly. So we all started at the hotel. We were all escorted in this kind of flotilla of boats up the river to the cinema where the premiere was being held. And I think the craziest thing of all was just seeing the response to Lisa from Blackpink, who is of course, from Thailand. You don't really realize the scale of her fame there until you're there and you witness it firsthand. Cause she's sort of like the Taylor Swift or the Beyonce of Thailand. And everywhere she went, she was kind of flanked by this army of security guards. And all of the fans were screaming for her. They were all around the dock. They were lining up the red carpet. So that was pretty crazy. And I have to hand it to her, because I spoke to her at the after party and she was super humble. It was her first major acting role, so she was so excited to have it released into the world. And obviously the White Lotus is very much an ensemble show. And you definitely got the sense that she didn't want to be hogging all of the spotlight she wanted. She was really excited to be part of this cast of amazing actors. And she was palling around with Patrick Schwarzenegger and Sarah Katharine Hook, who plays the daughter of Parker Posey and Jason Isaac's character. Yeah, they were all certainly having a good time. I mean, there was a lot to be entertained by. There was fire breathing dancers, there were drag queens.

[Choma Nadi]

So this wasn't your average TV premiere.

[Fumi Feto]

It certainly wasn't. No. And they. Yeah. And there was an amazing Thai rapper called Millie and I'm now obsessed with her. And lots of White Lotus themed food and cocktails and all the rest.

[Choma Nadi]

Did they put you up at the hotel that it was.

[Fumi Feto]

They did. And then they very kindly. Actually. Then I was allowed to go to the hotel in Koh Samui where they actually filmed the show. Oh, that's what I Was thinking two nights afterwards, and it was pretty spectacular. And I heard that the hotel that they filmed the previous season in was booked out for, I think, like a year after they filmed it there. So if you do want to visit, then, now's the time. Patrick Schwarzenegger was especially eager to be interviewed by Vogue. Cause he was wearing a very dapper Tommy Hilfiger archival suit that was very on trend archive. Yeah. His only regret was that it was incredibly hot, as you can imagine, and he was wearing a woolen suit.

[Choma Nadi]

So what did you wear?

[Fumi Feto]

I actually left my suit in London, so I had to run.

[Choma Nadi]

No, get out.

[Fumi Feto]

Thank God for Zara ran there and got a linen suit a few hours before the premiere. And that was sort of the recurring theme, actually, when all of the actors I spoke to, when I was asking them what was it like to film in Thailand, they were like, it was fantastic. The food was amazing. It'll ruin Thai food for you wherever you're going back to. But it was hot. They were like their top. Everyone's top tip was, if you're visiting Thailand, bring a handheld fan.

[Tyler]

Wow.

[Fumi Feto]

Although I later learned actually, that part of the reason why I think their experience of it was so crazy in terms of the heat is because when they were filming the show, they couldn't use air conditioning because it would mess up the camera lenses. So they were filming scenes, for example, in their beds in like 30, well, 35 degree heat. That doesn't translate to the American.

[Liam Hess]

We can translate that. Hold on.

[Fumi Feto]

But yeah, they were filming scenes of 90 degrees.

[Tyler]

Oof.

[Fumi Feto]

Oof. Yeah. Oh, God.

[Liam Hess]

Liam, did you wear any tropical wear? Did you have like a Bodhi Hawaiian shirt?

[Fumi Feto]

I did not. I had a very jazzy kind of paisley print Gucci shirt that I did.

[Liam Hess]

Oh, that's what I love to see.

[Fumi Feto]

Not forget to pack. And that was. I wore that with my linen suit. So I managed to stay cool, hopefully in both senses of the word. I don't know.

[Liam Hess]

Liam, please go take a nap. After an epic journey. And thank you so much for being our White Lotus man in Havana, man in Bangkok.

[Fumi Feto]

My pleasure. And keep watching the show because there are a lot more twists.

[Liam Hess]

I'm so excited. And turns to come Choma, your amazing British vogue, British GQ fashion and film party. That was the unofficial official bafta's afterparty.

[Choma Nadi]

Yeah, it was a lot of fun. And we had Adam Badawi, who's the head of GQ in the uk, on earlier this week, chatting about it. And I'm still kind of like floating on A high from it because it was so fun. It was so starry. It was so great that our hosts, Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Cynthia Erivo, and Harris Dickinson, your favorite, who was super charming. It was great that two of them won baftas. And Adrian rocked up with his bafta, which was really fun, and was like, yeah, posing with it, which was really fun. I think he was really pumped to win.

[Liam Hess]

And I'd like a full A to Z breakdown of your look. I was obsessed with this Vivienne Westwood dress you wore. How did you find it? How did you get into it?

[Choma Nadi]

Yeah, it was actually two pieces, and Honey sweet Elias styled me, so I had mentioned Vivienne to her before because I always try and wear British designers where possible. And I. Last year, I wore a vintage Vivienne Westwood look. And I just thought, well, let's see what there is that's current. But I didn't look at the collection. And so it was sort of a surprise when on the Wednesday before the party, it was. There was this look there, and I thought about it, and I was like, yeah, let's. Let's try it. But it was corseted, so there was like a zippered corset and a skirt. And let me tell you, it took Honey and Yasmin Harney, who's my executive assistant, to get in to the dress.

[Chloe]

Wow.

[Choma Nadi]

Yeah. Yeah. I was not feeling very confident that week. I was like, oh, no, I don't actually want to get out of my sweatpants. It's cold, and I don't want to get dressed up. And then it was like I sort of hatched out of an egg and was like a new woman in this Vivienne Westwood look.

[Liam Hess]

Well, you looked fabulous. And the party looked like so much fun. Yeah. There was a lot going on this weekend besides the BAFTAs. There was also Saturday Night Live's big 50th anniversary, which is so wild that that show has remained relevant and at the forefront of the culture for half a century. The whole weekend felt like a sort of homage to Lorne Michaels, who's the creator and runs snl. And it was just huge star wattage all around. On Friday night, there was this enormous concert at Radio City Music hall with everyone from Cher to Backstreak Boys performing. So every generation got very excited.

[Choma Nadi]

Wow.

[Liam Hess]

And then Sunday night, there was the. It was black tie. It was at Studio 8H, which is where SNL is filmed every week. And it was a 50th anniversary special show with tons of former cast members, former hosts, characters that people Love. Like, my favorite Mike Myers, Linda Richmond from Coffee Talk. I just thought it was really well handled and everyone seemed to be having a great time. So that was really fun. I watched it.

[Choma Nadi]

I mean, can we talk about Emma Stone's popcorn dress? It was so hilarious to me to see people, kind of people commenters pick up on the funniest things. They were just like, well, I guess she's not gonna have. Somebody else is gonna have to clean up the popcorn. I'm like, it's funny. It's snl. Like, let her put some popcorn on the red carpet.

[Liam Hess]

Also, she probably did pour it out into the trash or eat some of it. Like, everyone simmered down. I did wonder about the, like, atelier at Vuitton because it was custom. Louis Vuitton being like, popcorn grease is getting here. Like, was it buttery popcorn? Because if so, that dress is never going to be worn again. But yeah, there were some great dramatic looks. We love the popcorn moments. Dakota Johnson had a crazy. Oh, I missed the cool. All the way up her leg with, like, the Gucci horse bit connecting it.

[Choma Nadi]

Wow.

[Liam Hess]

Kim Kardashian wore what Christian called, like, her version of the slip dress, which was like, metallic and skin tight that Balenciaga made for her. So people really, really went for. Went for black tie. Took black tie seriously. Ayo Edebiri wore Colleen Allen straight from the Runway. Colleen Allen was everybody.

[Choma Nadi]

Everybody's talking about Colleen Allen.

[Liam Hess]

Yeah, everyone loved Colleen's. Colleen was a fun fact. Once a Vogue intern and Colleen, everyone was talking about her presentation during New York Fashion Week. And Ayo looked amazing wearing a velvet gown by her. Chloe Feynman wore of a vintage Guy LaRoche dress from 1975. So it's the same age as the show. To me, it was like, that's cool. Sometimes buy a bottle of wine the date that you were born or got married this weekend. I mean, I do feel like this marathon of awards season is never ending. This weekend is the Indie Spirit Awards on Saturday hosted by A.D. bryant. We were just saying this morning that those do always seem to be sort of a fun one that people take fashion risks with and comedic risks with the hosting. So we'll be watching that. And then on Sunday, the SAG Awards Screen Actors Guild are hosted by Kristen Bell. And just one week later, the Oscars.

[Choma Nadi]

Gosh, it's all happening.

[Liam Hess]

We're recording this Wednesday afternoon. London Fashion Week starts tomorrow. What are you looking forward to at London Fashion Week?

[Choma Nadi]

Oh, there's so many. There's so many great things. I'm looking forward to on Saturday. Duro always does a really fabulous presentation and he always does it in an amazing location. So I'm really looking forward to that. And serves like homemade biscuits and, you know, like fresh peppermint tea. I'm excited for that on Saturday. And then Jawara Elaine has a show that day and so does 16Arlington, which I'm super looking forward to. Then of course, Sunday at Simone. And I'm looking forward to Connor I've's show Erdem Tolu Koca, who's a really fabulous emerging British designer who was actually on the COVID of British Vogue with a trio of other designers the year before I started. And then of course on Monday, it's Burberry. We always. It's always like the big kind of grand finale of the week. And Daniel came to our fashion and film party was the first time he was able to come because usually the party is the night before his show. So it was so nice to see him being able to let his hair down and come and relax. And he's been talking, he's sounded very excited about what he has in store. So we're all very excited to see what. To see what Burberry looks like. It's going to be a busy weekend. A busy, long weekend, but a fun one.

[Liam Hess]

Other news that excited are daily standup [e-mail] where A$AP Rocky being acquitted on his trial. Because we all have been huge devotees to his looks. His court looks, his court fits have gone over very well in this group with Saint Laurent even sending out press releases about some of them, which I love.

[Choma Nadi]

So amazing. That's so amazing. I do Obviously, I think A$AP has amazing style always. But I've actually been super into Rihanna's looks. Obviously I'm a Rihanna Stan. But I thought, you know, she wore this fabulous, like, Phoebe Philo trench, leather trench that, like. I've been lusting over Margiela. Like, she just, I think. And she wore this fabulous. I think it. I think it may have been a Balenciaga look. Oh, yes, a Balenciaga sort of Balenciaga printed green dress, which is very like a twist on bourgeois. Like, I like her kind of twist on bourgeois, like, you know, executive realness. So. And then with the babies in tow, I just thought, I don't know, I think it's a hard space to dress for. You want to communicate the right message. And I thought they both navigated that, obviously being the best dress couple in the world in a great way.

[Liam Hess]

They really are I love to love seeing it on Valentine's Day.

[Choma Nadi]

Yes, the couple that goes to court together stays together.

[Liam Hess]

Wear Salar all together. The run through will be back in a moment.

[Chloe]

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[Choma Nadi]

Ebay.

[Chloe]

The place for new pre loved vintage and rare fashion. Yeah, ebay. Things people love.

[Choma Nadi]

And we're back with our amazing March cover star, Tyler. Tyler, congratulations on your first Vogue cover.

[Tyler]

Thank you. Oh, my God. I believe it.

[Choma Nadi]

I was just so impressed with you on the shoot. I know for me, who's on the call with us, who wrote the story. Our amazing style editor and I were both there and we were both just, like, spellbound by you and how. How much energy you brought to it, how much fun you brought to it, how playful you are, how you're able to just move in front of the camera in a way that's just, like, totally out of this world. So I wanted to know what it felt like for you. I know this was a big moment for you too.

[Tyler]

It was a huge moment. Oh, not even just a big moment. Like my first ever Vogue cover. Like, oh, my gosh, it was so exciting. Like, when I heard about it, I couldn't wait to shoot. Literally, I couldn't wait. And just the photographer is insane. I've loved his work for a while, so getting to work with him was also really fun. And just getting there and seeing how collaborative everybody was, especially with the styling, I really feel like I was a part of it. I wasn't just posing, you know, behind the scenes, like, leading up to the shoots, I felt really like in it. So on the day, it was fun to just play with everybody and, yeah, just have fun. It was. It was really, really great. Yeah, I loved it.

[Choma Nadi]

Were there any looks that you put on and were unexpected for you and you were like, oh, I wasn't. I didn't know this could be. I could channel this charact character. I could be this mood. I could be this girl. Like, were there any looks that sort of surprised you and you're like, oh, I could do more of this.

[Tyler]

Like, oh, my gosh, I really loved that hair, the short hair. Like, I never would have went for it, but when it was put on me, I was like, this is actually hot. Like, it was hot like that with, like, the belt. Look with all the belt. Yeah, Like, I really love that one. And I loved the one with the really long hair and that outfit that was just like.

[Choma Nadi]

Oh, the Bottega. Yeah. The way that you seeing that in motion was insane.

[Tyler]

Yeah. Like, everything was just so fun to just put on and play with and shoot with. Especially those big shoes, like those Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse. I don't know what type of shoes those were. Also just so fun to put on. And I don't know, the keys, like, literally everything was just.

[Choma Nadi]

Yeah, the Dallara, that was so fab. There were a matching kind of bikini made out of keys was amazing.

[Tyler]

I love the way that you kept up that energy all day because it was quite a long day, wasn't it? Do you remember? It was a pretty long day and you still were just bouncing off the walls and still being really excited. And I mean, how do you. How do you even do that? Because honestly, it was a long day.

[Choma Nadi]

We wrapped at like 10:30, I think, or 11.

[Tyler]

Yeah. Yeah, it was very long. Like, oh, my gosh, it was long. Like I was eating in between looks. But I don't know, I think it was because I was genuinely having fun. Like, it was really fun. Everybody was fun. We were all making jokes. Like, everybody just had the same energy. Like, the. The assistant stylists were also Brazilian. So we were just talking about Brazil and this, this, this, like, it was a whole fun day.

I mean, when we last saw each other, it was when December, I think. I think it was coming up to Christmas and you were preparing for your arena shows. I'd love to hear more about what you've been doing since then because you've had an epic few, well, about a year and a half, 18 months now.

Since we saw each other. After that show, I literally went on holiday. I was literally like, I'm about to spend my December right, because, like, I haven't spent it right in a while, especially since I've gotten busy. So this December, I was literally like Joburg, Cape Town, I was in Nigeria. Like, I was just partying and just having fun with friends, family. I spent a lot of time with family because I'm hardly in South Africa. So I made sure to like, take the time. And yeah, like, I was sleeping in my parents bed again. I was annoying my brother. We were all just having fun, you know, all of us in the house again. Like my siblings, we all kind of went our own ways. So for all of us to be in one house together with our parents really felt good. And yeah, and Then after that, went back to work in January, did another show and streamed in 40 countries across Africa, which was insane. Another Joburg one. We went back and was packed again. Once again, sold out. Everyone really showed out. And yeah, it was really cool. And then now I'm working on my next project, so that's fun.

[Choma Nadi]

We should go back a bit in time before we go any further. Cause I do want to remind everybody exactly the whirlwind year, well, career that you've had so far. I mean, your song Water went absolutely everywhere. And I know that on the set, we. There was a special moment towards the end of the day which I thought was kind of special because Raph wanted to make it rain in the studio as in homage to your breakout hit, which. Which was incredible. But let's go through some of the milestones. You were the youngest African artist to win a Grammy in 2024. You released your debut full album last year. You've had this incredible rise. And I'm sort of curious to know, like, what have been the most exciting parts about that and what have been the most difficult parts about being in the public eye? Cause, I mean, now you. You're. You're sort of a global superstar, and it happened so quickly, and I think very few people can understand what that must be like. So I'm always curious to hear, like, what's that experience been like for you?

[Tyler]

Yeah, like, obviously it's been insane. Like, I love it. It's literally my dream. But I don't think it's what I expected fully. Like, I've had amazing times. Like, I've been traveling. I've been able to bring my sister along. Like, she's able to experience new things with me and just meet new people, make music with people that I've always wanted to make music with and just be creative and have, like, this is the most fun job. Like, I feel like this is the most fun job you can have. Like, it's just. It's just been amazing. And just to see how far the music is going and how what I envisioned is actually coming to life. It's really exciting, especially at this age. Like, I'm young and fresh and I'm experiencing, like, when I have kids, kids, I have stories to tell my kids. That's how I'm just so excited about it. But yeah, there's also a lot of difficult things. Like just the fact, like that when you go out, wherever you go, like, you have to always think, like, okay, there's probably people that are watching or are going to record you and going to follow you. And I don't know, I find that a bit weird and it's annoying at times, but I don't know, like, I feel like with everything that I'm getting in return, like the life that I'm living, I feel like I can deal with that. You know, I really can deal with that because the upsides are just. Yeah, I just love it.

[Choma Nadi]

You get that sense when you. Meeting you and seeing, you know, the people who are around you, you. You have such a good crew around you. And talking about having your sister, is that part of how you stay grounded?

[Tyler]

Yeah, definitely. The people around me and my sister, for sure, because, oh, my gosh, my sister is just. Yeah. Also sometimes she's annoying, but she does, like, she does help me feel like I'm still home, you know, I feel like I didn't realize how important it was to have somebody like that with me during all of this. Because it's a lot. Like this whole world is a lot. And it's so different to what I'm used to, like, culturally, like, everything. Like, it's just different. Like, especially in, like, South Africa, we don't really have this type of lifestyle, like paparazzi. And so coming here and seeing this type of Hollywood lifestyle, it's been very different. And I've been learning how to adapt to it. So having Sydney with me is really fun because she's also able to check me when I need to be checked.

[Choma Nadi]

That's important.

[Tyler]

It's important. And I know that she's honest. Like, I don't want yes men around me. Like, if I'm doing something messed up, I'm saying anything messed up. Like, I want people to let me know. So Cindy is that person. She will always tell me the truth.

[Choma Nadi]

Are there any examples you can share?

[Tyler]

There was this one thing that I was supposed to do, and I was just so tired. Like, I was exhausted that one morning, right. And my sister was like, just get up. Like, just get up. Like, it'll be done in a few hours. Like, just do it. Like, you don't want to just miss this opportunity just because you're tired. And then I was like, yeah, actually, for real. And then I did it. And I was so happy that I did it, you know? So I don't know. Just. She just keeps me going and keeps me realizing that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Like, don't get too comfortable, you know, and sleep later.

[Choma Nadi]

Sleep later. It's a good one.

[Tyler]

One of the things I love hearing is just how much you love Johannesburg. You love South Africa so much, and you're so proud of where you are. And I remember you talking to me about how important it was that your first show, your first big show was in Johannesburg. And I'd love you to share that with our listeners about, you know, why that was so important to you and why you have such a deep love for that incredible city.

I mean, it's home, you know, like, my whole life was spent there. What makes me Tyler is rooted in Joburg in South Africa, so I'll always have a soft spot for home. But I really wanted to do the show, especially because after water and for a while, I've been trying to, like, push my name. So I've been all over the world, and I haven't really given home a show. So I really made it a thing to tell my team. Like, guys, no matter how you guys figure it out, I really want to do something for South Africa, for home, for Africa. So we managed to do that and have this headline show for home. And the show out was literally insane. People singing every song word for word.

Yes, I was there. I heard it all. Yeah, it was incredible.

It was funny because even, like, water, when I was. I started singing it, but then they. I let them take over. And hearing them sing it, you can hear the strong South African accents.

[Choma Nadi]

I love it. I love it.

[Tyler]

It's really special.

It was so special. It was literally, so special. And it was like, literally performing with friends and family, because in the crowd, I'm hearing, yeah, what the heck? I'm hearing this, this, this. Like, I just felt like family, friends.

I mean, South Africans can party. They really, really know how to move, and they love to party. It was incredible.

We don't care, like, how sweaty we are. We don't care how crazy our makeup looks anymore. Our hair. Like, we are on those tables. We dancing, and, yeah, the music literally just takes over.

[Choma Nadi]

Speaking of music, I know that Fumi got some of this in her story. And I know that you wanted to be. You said that you, since you were little, you knew you wanted to be a singer. Can you talk a bit about your history with singing?

[Tyler]

Growing up, music was literally all over the house. Everywhere I went. Music is, like, huge, especially back home. It's in everything that we do. So I kind of really fell in love with it at a very young age. Like, my aunt would dance. I have cousins, aunties, uncles that sing. My uncle that sadly recently passed away, he would always pull out a guitar out of nowhere, like, any Event, any event that we have any get together, even if it's not a get together. And they just showed up. Like he'll pull out a guitar and just start blasting and singing and we would all just join and sing together. And I, I always just loved it. And watching it on tv, watching concerts and music videos and just seeing how fun it looked, I just wanted to do that so badly. And me falling in love with music, especially like my type of music from back home but also overseas, like old music. Brian McKnight, Boyz II Men, old music.

[Choma Nadi]

Girl makes me feel very old.

[Tyler]

Oh my bad. But I mean it was kind of old.

[Choma Nadi]

Like when I was young, I was old now. Yeah, yeah.

[Tyler]

Like I was six there jiving to Stevie Wonder. Like I was feeling it. So yeah, like music is deep rooted in me. Even my dad, he used to be our alarm, like for school, he would come into the room and be like, it's time to wake up. The time is 5:30. And he would make a whole ringtone song and sing it like in the room for us to wake up. So I don't know, I just feel like naturally I fell in love with it.

[Choma Nadi]

And when did you start performing? I know you had a YouTube channel where you sang covers.

[Tyler]

Yes.

[Choma Nadi]

Oh my God.

[Tyler]

I used to try and delete it like when I was a teen. You know how you're always embarrassed like oh my word. Cause my mom would put it on like for anybody that would come visit. I'm like, ma, I don't even know these people, she'll go put on the whole thing. And I used to try and hack and delete it. But I'm happy I didn't cuz I absolutely love it. It was Justin Bieber. I would sing Justin Bieber on YouTube. But yeah, I mean I started performing for my family. Really like my family and in school, in primary school I made like a group and me and my friends would, at break time we'd go to the field and we would tell everybody we have a performance at break time over here this time either. And then we would go and perform and see how many people would show out. People would come and watch us.

[Choma Nadi]

What was the name of the group we?

[Tyler]

I don't even remember. I don't know.

[Choma Nadi]

It was a long time.

[Tyler]

I feel like it was just vibes. It was just vibes.

[Choma Nadi]

I love that you make distinctions between Afrobeats, which is derived from Nigeria, and Amapiano, South African house music. And you're very vocal about the different and vast genres that exist in Africa. Do you see a day where on the global stage these different genres will be recognized outside of just one category? Or how do you see things evolving? Because I think we're in a time where there are all these. All these new genres are bubbling up to the global stage. Or at least they are for. In the global sense. Because I'm sure they've obviously have long histories in their own way. But as far as globally, I don't.

[Tyler]

Know, I feel like genre is like categorizing music and putting things into a genre is such a difficult thing. Especially now when people are becoming so experimental with music. We are incorporating everything and making everything. So to categorize it as becoming harder, I feel especially with, like, the new age artists being as creative as we are. So I don't know, who knows how's it gonna be? But all I know for myself is that I just wanna make whatever I wanna make and it be recognized in all boxes, you know, because I. I even find it hard to categorize my stuff. Like, I don't know either, guys. I don't know either, because I don't know. I play with it all. I play with R B, I play with afrobeats. I'm a piano, hip hop, everything. So categorizing music is just.

[Choma Nadi]

I don't know, maybe it doesn't feel modern. Yeah, I think you're right. Like, being in a box doesn't feel so modern, I think. I think originality is what we want. Right. Something that you've never heard before and. And that requires kind of going outside and. Yeah. Of the boxes that are prescribed boxes, you know.

[Tyler]

Yeah. I think it'll be boring if everything is always like, like. Nah. Like we should be able to blur the lines and cross over, you know, and do whatever we want to do and whatever sounds good and feels good. Like, who cares what box it's in? Like, who cares what box it's in? If it's good, it's good.

I guess the tricky thing with this, and I suppose you addressed this also at one point, is when sometimes not necessarily giving music its sort of credit from where it actually comes from, and lumping everything under one category then kind of takes away from one genre. So when everything was lumped together under, you know, African music or, you know, Afrobeats, and not really understanding that amapiano is actually a genre in and of itself. And it's very different to Afrobeats, as, you know, choma mentioned, that is inherently Nigerian, or at least that's where its origins are from, you know, it started with Fela Kuti many, many years ago. And then it sort of evolved into what we see today. But then you have amapiano that really is South African. And it's wanting to give credit where credit is due rather than just lumping everything together. So it's a tricky one, isn't it? Because you want everyone to get the credit, but at the same time, it then puts people in a box when you sort of, you know, split them into different categories.

I think, yes. But I think it's also like, people just need to listen to the artists more. Also because I'm able to get an R B award. And I feel like it's right, because R B is a huge influence in my music. I'm not an R B artist. I don't think I'm an R B artist. But me incorporating it and it being recognized in these places is important, you know, So I feel like I should be able to win an Afrobeats award, a R B award. This award or this award, this award. And it'd be okay. And people not be like, oh, I thought she was Afrobeats. I thought she was R B. I thought, like, people can be anything and everything whatever day. Like, whatever they feeling that day, you know, with me, I represent Africa, African music. Like, I really push Afrobeats. And I'm a piano because it's not something that is fully recognized globally. So I will always promote that. Those genres. But at the same time, I'm also more than that, if that makes sense. Like, I'm. Yeah, I play with it all.

[Liam Hess]

More from Tyla after a quick break.

[Choma Nadi]

I obviously love how playful you are with fashion and how many risks you've taken. And I remember when Melissa showed me a sketch of your incredible Baumau look that you wore to the Met. And I was nervous because I wasn't sure that you could pull it off. I didn't know you. I knew of you, but I thought it was quite a bold look. And it needed a really kind of, like, it needed someone who was really going to own it. And of course, you proved me absolutely wrong. You really. You went viral with that look. And you had so much confidence and you look so gorgeous. And even the fact that it was quite a difficult look to maneuver. I mean, it had to. You had to be lifted up the stairs. You just made it look so easy. And that's when I knew. I was like, okay, this woman is a star, you know, not just a sort of musical phenomenon, but she enjoys and loves fashion and pushing fashion and I think that you're, you know, I know you also went to Jacquemus show recently, and you look like you're having so much fun, and I think I can see that obviously, like, fashion is. Is something that you're beginning to sort of find a language for, like, to understand, like, what works for you, what you love. Is it something that you enjoy, that you're beginning to sort of, like, a sort of new language for you to learn, or, like, what do you love about it?

[Tyler]

Yeah, I've always loved dressing up and fashion and all of that, but I feel like these past months, like, especially being now in the industry and now the access that I have, the things that I'm able to attend, and just the access alone has made it more fun because I have more to play with and more to, you know, just have fun with, you know, like, just being able to go to these fashion weeks and do music videos and performances and just being able to, you know, have fun with fashion, try new things, try things that haven't been seen before or trying things that are, like, risky that people maybe wouldn't want to wear. I really find that fun. And just seeing, like, what people think, like, their reaction, like, the Met Gala was so insane because I couldn't wait to just get on and let people see me in sand. Like, I don't know, I just. Like, it was insane, you know, and just the way it even went about it was so, like. I don't know, it just fell into place. Like, even me getting carried on, like, we did not plan the whole thing.

[Choma Nadi]

I mean, you just look incredible.

[Tyler]

Like, we did not plan it. It was literally just what was supposed to happen. And watching it back, I see it even in different eyes, you know, watching it back, I see it as, like, wow. Like, that actually looked insane, that dress, the sand. The idea of just wearing sand is just so cool. And being able to be that muse in fashion has become really interesting and fun to do, especially now, because I feel like now I'm incorporating it more in my world, in my creative and with my music. And now when I'm making music, I'm imagining, what does this look like? Like, what would this look like on stage? Like, you know, like, I don't know. It's becoming more fun the more I dive into it.

I'd love to know if you have anything that you've worn that you've now sort of look back and regret. Have you got any fashion regrets so far?

Oh, my gosh, yes.

Can you share?

Have a lot of fashion Regrets, Guys, I'm like, I get very bored and I change my mind so quickly. Like, my team hates it. Like, they hate it. They hate how often I change my mind, but it's because, I don't know, like, I would like something now and then instantly hate it. Like, why, Tyler? Why? So one that I really hate was so I had to do this quick, like, performance with. With Ghana in Nigeria this December. And everything was rushed. Like, everything was rushed. Like, there was not much planning, not much options, and we just threw something together. And when I saw the pictures back, I was like, tyler, no way.

[Choma Nadi]

I bet you looked amazing. I can't even.

[Tyler]

Oh, you looked incredible.

I mean, maybe, but. Ah. Like. Like, that is not. That was not the vibe.

[Choma Nadi]

That was not the mom every now and again. I mean, like, yeah, it's. I think it's totally you. You're allowed to, like, have a sort of less than perfect moment.

[Tyler]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. It was okay.

And there's another big red carpet moment coming up. Drumroll. So the Met Gala theme for the year was announced, and it's tailored for you. And do you know what you're going to wear?

Honestly, no. And, you know, guys, people were asking me, what did Anna. What were you and Anna talking about.

[Choma Nadi]

When we were in the show?

[Tyler]

And, you know, she was like, oh, are you gonna. I'm excited to see, like, the Met Gala. Like, you think you're gonna top the look? I was like, that is. That Met Gala that I did. This last one that I did, that's one to top. Like, that one is insane. But I, like, I feel like this year and going forward, like, I really just want to do different stuff. Like, I don't want to do any moment that is similar to that one that I just did. Like, whatever I do this year and the following years or however long I'm able to go, I just want to be able to kill it differently every time, you know? So we'll see. I'm sure it'll be amazing.

[Choma Nadi]

I can't wait. I can't wait. Yeah, I'm excited.

[Tyler]

I'm excited to see that.

[Choma Nadi]

Well, speaking of sneak peeks, I'm also sort of. You said you're working on new music. Can you give us a hint of, like, what it sounds like? Influences, inspirations, vibes?

[Tyler]

Like, last year, I feel like I went through so much, so many things that have changed me a lot. Like, changed me a lot as a person, as an artist, as a woman, you know? So I have a lot to speak about for this album. So I feel like this one is going to be much more personal, much more real, like, experiences and just really where I am and where I was, like, during this whole crazy journey that happened so fast. You know, I just have so much to talk about. So I feel like this album is definitely going to be like. I feel like the Tigers are going to love this one because they're going to be able to also, like, you know, match what I'm saying with actual things that have been happening that people have seen. And, yeah, I feel like that's going to be really fun also bringing that into the music. But sound wise, also, like, I'm really just playing around, you know, playing around, not sticking to one thing, just trying to take risks and just do whatever I'm feeling right now. So, yeah, everyone is gonna find out when that album drops, how I've changed, like, everything that's been happening the way I think now. And, yeah, I just feel like it's an album that the Tigers are gonna love.

So do you have a rough idea of when we can expect this?

I'm not saying nothing.

[Choma Nadi]

Yeah, don't make any promises. Nothing on the record. When it's cooked, it's cooked. When it's done, it's done.

[Tyler]

When I spoke to you, I always remember this line, actually, when I was speaking to you about, you know, the kind of things you do. And it's really interesting when you talk about not wanting to be put in a particular box. And, you know, one of your inspirations was Pharrell. You love the way that he does so many different things. And you said, while I'm on this earth, I just want to touch everything. So do you have an idea of what your sort of dream project would be?

Mm. So right now I'm really just excited about the music and just creating a new world and a new album and just seeing what comes out of it. Especially considering, like, everything that I've. That I'm now able to pull from. But definitely down the line, I really want to act. Like, I really want to act, but I don't want to do, like, something usual. Like, I really want to do like maybe like a film, like a Frank Ocean film or Childish Gambino or something, or even Tyler the creator, like something that is more artistic. Like, I really want to do some of that before I even think about big, like, movies. But yeah, I really want to do something like that soon and collaborate with this brand that I don't want to say, but, you know, I want to create like a little line with. With A brand or that?

In music?

Yes. In fashion.

[Choma Nadi]

Okay.

[Tyler]

In fashion. Like, I really want to create, like a few pieces in collaboration with this brand I really love. And yeah, like, a perfume would be nice. Like some lip gloss, body oil, I don't know, like everything. Like, literally everything. Like, while I'm on this earth, why not do it all?

Amen.

Wow.

[Choma Nadi]

I feel like the world is your oyster.

[Tyler]

Thank you.

[Choma Nadi]

Or the possibilities are limitless. I'd personally love to see like a Tyler and Tyler the creator Tyler times Tyler project.

[Tyler]

I mean, how made it very major.

[Choma Nadi]

Well, Tyler, thank you so much. It just feels like it's Tyler's world and we're in it.

[Tyler]

Yeah, absolutely. So excited to see what's next and what's coming. This new. I remember you saying this album's gonna be a little bit more spicy. There's a little bit more spicy. Tyler, I'm excited to see what that looks like.

Yes. Thank.

[Liam Hess]

The Run through is produced by Chelsea Daniel, Alex DePalma and Joanna Solotaro. It's engineered by Jake Loomis, Luke Moseley and James Yost. It is mixed by Mike Kutchman. Stephanie Karaoke is our executive producer and Chris Bannon is Conde Nast's head of global audio.

[Chloe]

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[Choma Nadi]

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[Chloe]

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[Choma Nadi]

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[Chloe]

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[Choma Nadi]

Yeah, eBay.

[Chloe]

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[Choma Nadi]

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[Chloe]

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[Choma Nadi]

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