South African singer Tyla has addressed a recent controversy regarding her racial identity, following comments made during an interview on the popular show, The Breakfast Club.

During the interview, Tyla, a Grammy Award-winning artist, was questioned about her identity as a “coloured” woman from South Africa. Her management intervened, advising her to avoid discussing the topic. The term “coloured” is viewed as offensive when used to describe black Americans, which led to a heated debate on social media.

In response to the backlash, Tyla took to her social media platforms to clarify her position and assert her identity. She wrote, “Never denied my blackness, idk (I don’t know) where that came from. I’m mixed with black/zulu, Irish, Mauritian/Indian and coloured. In ‘Southa’ I would be classified as a coloured woman and other places I would be classified as a black woman. Race is classified differently in different parts of the world.”

Tyla further elaborated on the complexities of racial classification, noting, “I don’t expect to be identified as coloured outside ‘Southa’ by anyone not comfortable doing so because I understand the weight of that word outside South Africa. To close this conversation, I’m both coloured in South Africa and a black woman. With that being said Asambeee.”

Her statements aimed to clear up any misunderstandings and highlight the differences in racial terminology across various regions. The conversation around her identity sparked significant discussion online, with many people weighing in on the issue.

The controversy has shed light on the nuanced and often complicated nature of racial identity, especially in a global context where terms and classifications can vary widely. Tyla’s response emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting these differences, particularly in how racial terms are perceived and used.

As the discussion continues, Tyla’s candid remarks serve as a reminder of the diverse and multifaceted identities that exist within and beyond South Africa. Her ability to navigate these complexities and speak openly about them has resonated with many of her fans and followers, who appreciate her transparency and willingness to address difficult topics.

The incident underscores the broader conversation about race and identity, and the importance of cultural sensitivity and awareness in public discourse. Tyla’s engagement with her audience on this matter reflects a commitment to fostering understanding and inclusivity.