South African sensation Tyla has officially reached a historic milestone as her hit single “Water” surpasses one billion streams on Spotify. This achievement firmly establishes Tyla as a rising global star and highlights the ever-growing international appeal of African music.
With this feat, Tyla joins an exclusive league of African artists who have crossed the billion-stream mark on Spotify. Unlike previous record-holders Wizkid, Rema, and Tems, who hit the milestone through high-profile collaborations, Tyla’s success with “Water” is entirely her own—a testament to her unmatched talent, captivating sound, and global resonance.
Originally released on July 28, 2023, “Water” quickly gained momentum, fueled by Tyla’s unforgettable performance at the Giants of Africa Festival in Kigali, Rwanda. A viral dance challenge further propelled the track’s success, helping it dominate streaming platforms and global charts. The song’s unique fusion of amapiano and R&B struck a chord with audiences worldwide, ultimately earning Tyla her first GRAMMY® Award for Best African Music Performance at the 66th Grammy Awards in February 2024.
“We are incredibly proud of Tyla’s historic achievement. This milestone is a testament to her talent, hard work, and the power of music to transcend borders,” said Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music in Sub-Saharan Africa. “Tyla’s success is an inspiration to aspiring artists across Africa and the world, and we are honored to have played a part in her journey.”
