Tyla Releases Sophomore Album APOP, Blending Amapiano, Afrobeats, R&B, and Pop*

ENTERTAINMENT — South African singer Tyla has officially released her highly anticipated sophomore album, APOP*, marking the next chapter in her rapidly rising career following the global success of her Grammy-winning breakout hit ‘Water.’

Released through Fax Records/Epic Records, the 14-track project follows her 2024 self-titled debut album, Tyla, and last year’s WWP (We Wanna Party) EP. Building on the sound that helped propel her to international stardom, APOP* continues to fuse Amapiano, Afrobeats, R&B, and pop while embracing the African influences that have become central to her artistry.

The album opens with ‘Is It Love,’ a reflective track that pairs emotionally charged lyrics with rhythmic production, setting the tone for a dance-driven listening experience. It is followed by ‘That Girl,’ an energetic anthem produced by acclaimed Afrobeats hitmaker P2J, whose production plays a major role throughout the album.

Other standout tracks include ‘Mr. Nonchalant,’ ‘Double Blind,’ and ‘Kiss,’ each showcasing Tyla’s signature blend of infectious grooves, sultry vocals, and club-ready production.

Across its 14 songs, APOP* maintains a cohesive sonic identity. Rather than dramatically expanding into new musical territory, the album leans into the sound that has defined Tyla’s rise, offering a consistent blend of polished pop melodies and African rhythms.

Previously released singles ‘Chanel,’ ‘Is It,’ and ‘She Did It Again’ featuring Zara Larsson remain among the project’s strongest moments and continue to anchor the album’s commercial appeal.

While some listeners may have hoped for another breakout anthem on the scale of ‘Water,’ critics have noted that APOP* succeeds by reinforcing Tyla’s artistic identity instead of chasing trends. The project presents a confident vision from an artist who appears committed to refining her signature sound rather than reinventing it.

With APOP*, Tyla further establishes herself as one of the leading voices in contemporary global pop music. The album offers a confident mix of Pop, R&B, Amapiano, and Afrobeats, celebrating her South African roots while continuing to expand her international reach.