Tiwa Savage Speaks Out As Tyla Faces Backlash Over Global Citizen Remark
.” The comment added fuel to an ongoing debate around her identity and public statements.
Tyla’s Comment at Global Citizen
Tyla faced questions earlier this year after she described herself as “coloured” in international interviews, a term widely used in South Africa but often misunderstood abroad. When critics resurfaced those conversations during her Global Citizen set, she addressed the issue directly before performing. She told the crowd, “Sorry, I’m not sorry,” a statement that sparked divided reactions online.
Tiwa Savage Responds
Nigerian superstar Tiwa Savage later weighed in during an appearance on The Breakfast Club in the U.S. She defended Tyla, saying the 22-year-old singer may not have intended her words to come across as disrespectful.
“She’s young,” Tiwa said. “If it came out wrong, I’ll apologise on her behalf.” She also reminded fans that cultural terms can carry different meanings in different countries.
The Debate Around Identity
The exchange has reignited conversations about how South African identity terms like “coloured” are interpreted internationally. For some fans, Tyla’s comment felt dismissive, while others see her as standing firm in her truth. Tiwa’s response has been praised for striking a balance between support and accountability.
What Comes Next
Both artists remain in the spotlight, with Tyla continuing her global rise and Tiwa Savage preparing for her next round of international shows. Whether the controversy fades or continues, their exchange shows how African artists face new challenges as they step onto the global stage.