Culture Craze
Tyla Claims Second MTV VMA and Hints at ‘Hot’ New Album
Flying the South African flag high
South African-born superstar Tyla has done it again. At the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, held at the UBS Arena in New York, she walked away with her second VMA trophy, winning Best Afrobeats for her track Push 2 Start.
The category was stacked with some of the genre’s biggest global names, including Burna Boy, Wizkid, Tems, Asake, Shenseea, Skillibeng, and Rema, but Tyla’s hit single came out on top.
Speaking after her win, she kept it humble yet proud: “I’m very excited, the competition was very tough. Shout-out to all the nominees, shout-out to Africa and my team. It’s just a blessing to be here winning another award.”
A new album on the way
Beyond the award, Tyla gave fans even more reason to celebrate by hinting at what’s next. In her own words: “It’s coming and it’s coming in hot. Like for real, just keep an eye out.” With the world still riding the wave of her earlier global hit Water, anticipation around her next release is already building fast.
Style on the red carpet
Known for her fashion sense, Tyla turned heads on the red carpet in a vintage beige Chanel mini-dress, a piece first worn by Claudia Schiffer on the runway back in 1993. She paired it with layers of gold medallion jewellery by Pandora, draped across her neck, wrists, and waist.
The look made headlines for its balance of nostalgia and modern glamour, cementing Tyla’s reputation as a trendsetter on and off the stage.
The bigger picture at the VMAs
While Tyla’s win was a proud moment for Africa, the night belonged to Lady Gaga, who picked up four awards, including Artist of the Year. Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter tied with three each, while Doechii, Mariah Carey, and Ricky Martin all walked away with notable wins.
The show featured performances from global heavyweights including Carey, Gaga, Ricky Martin, DJ Snake, and Tate McRae, making it one of the most star-studded editions in recent years.
Why this win matters
For South Africa, Tyla’s second MTV VMA proves her rise is no fluke. She is carving out a space in a fiercely competitive global industry and shining a spotlight on African music at the world’s biggest award shows. Each international win not only cements her place among the world’s top artists but also carries the pride of a continent behind it.
Fans will now be keeping their eyes fixed on her upcoming album. If Tyla’s words are anything to go by, it is going to arrive with the same energy that has already made her one of the most exciting voices of her generation.
Also read: Kelly Khumalo’s ‘Nyamezela,’ A Song of Resilience Leading to Her Rebirth
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: Bona Magazine
