Tyla honours her late grandmother in touching Instagram post

The “Is It” hit maker Tyla has shared an emotional message following the passing of her grandmother. 

The Grammy-winning singer took to Instagram with a photo of the two of them together at her 21st birthday party, reflecting on the bond they shared and the role her grandmother played in her life.

In her tribute, Tyla thanked her grandmother for the guidance and love she received over the years.

She spoke about how much she valued the stories her grandmother would tell and how they left her with lessons she will carry for life.

“Thank you for all the love and all the life stories you would tell me,” she wrote, adding that her grandmother often spoke with pride about the family’s lineage and referred to her and her siblings as “royalty”.

Tyla also shared how her grandmother nurtured her understanding of her cultural background, which has significantly influenced her artistry.

Born and raised in Johannesburg, the singer has always embraced her diverse background as a coloured woman. She has spoken about her Indian, Zulu and Irish blood and how her roots make her who she is today.

She credited her with teaching her about her Zulu heritage and said it helped make her into the artist she is today. 

Calling her grandmother “the sweetest soul”, the 23-year-old singer said her presence will forever be missed, closing her message with, “I love you forever, Gran.”

This tribute arrives as Tyla continues to achieve international success, performing on global stages, topping music charts, and solidifying her position as one of South Africa’s biggest stars.

While celebrating these milestones, she is now faced with personal grief and chose to reveal that part of her personal life with fans, which showcases the balance between public achievement and private loss.

Her fans responded with an outpouring of support in the comments section, sending condolences and words of comfort. 

X user @Trish_Angelique commented: “Our heartfelt condolences to our International Music Star Tyla and her family on the passing of her grandmother 💔🌹”.

“OMGGG! My condolences to Tyla and her family, and may granny rest in perfect peace!🙏🤍,” said @VivianOgec2119.