Tyla crowned 'World Artist of the Year' at iHeartRadio Awards

Tyla crowned ‘World Artist of the Year’ at iHeartRadio Awards

Tyla made history at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, becoming the first South African artist to win ‘World Artist of the Year’.

Tyla on the cover of Dazed. Image: Instagram via @Dazed

South African pop sensation Tyla has once again made her nation proud by clinching the coveted World Artist of the Year award at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards.

The glittering ceremony, held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, celebrated some of the biggest names in global music. However, it was Tyla who stole the spotlight for South Africa.

TYLA, THE RISING GLOBAL ICON

The amapiano and R&B star triumphed over a stellar lineup of nominees, including Burna Boy, Central Cee, Tems, and YG Marley.

Her win solidifies her status as a rising global icon and a trailblazer for African music on the international stage, according to Elle.

Tyla’s fans in South Africa are ecstatic, with social media buzzing with congratulatory messages celebrating her monumental achievement.

TYLA’S OTHER NOMINATIONS

In addition to her win, Tyla was nominated for R&B Song of the Year with her hit single Water and Dance Song of the Year for its remix featuring Marshmello.

While she didn’t take home these awards, the nominations underscore her growing influence in multiple genres.

Her breakout single Water, which has amassed over 174 million streams on Spotify, continues to be a global anthem, according to People.

SOUTH AFRICAN ROOTS

Speaking about her journey in previous interviews, Tyla has often credited her South African roots as the foundation of her artistry.

“This is a win for all of us back in South Africa,” she said. Her music blends amapiano’s infectious rhythms with pop and R&B, creating a unique sound that resonates worldwide.

Tyla’s rise has been meteoric. From self-promoting her debut single Getting Late on YouTube to collaborating with global stars like Marshmello and Travis Scott.

She has consistently pushed boundaries.

THE IHEART RADIO AWARDS

Her remix of Water featuring Marshmello added a club-ready vibe to the track, while Travis Scott brought tropical energy with his auto-tuned vocals.

The iHeartRadio Music Awards also honoured other major artists.

Taylor Swift dominated the evening with nine awards, including Artist of the Year. Billie Eilish won Album of the Year, according to Times News Now.

Benson Boone’s Beautiful Things was named Song of the Year. Sabrina Carpenter and Kendrick Lamar also bagged multiple accolades.

TYLA’S ACCOLADES

Tyla’s win is not just a personal triumph but a significant moment for South African music on the global stage.

It follows her success at last year’s MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs). She won three major categories: Best R&B Act, Best African Act, and Best Afrobeats Act.

In her acceptance speeches, Tyla often emphasises the power of African music and its ability to unite people across borders.

THE GOLDEN GIRL

South Africa stands tall today, thanks to Tyla’s unwavering determination and immense talent.

As she continues to break barriers and redefine what it means to be an African artist on the world stage, there’s no doubt that this is just the beginning for Johannesburg’s golden girl.