South African sensation Tyla Laura Seethal, aka Tyla, has just achieved a major milestone in her rapidly rising career. Her smash hit “Jump” has earned a coveted spot on none other than former US President Barack Obama’s 2024 summer playlist.
Obama’s annual summer playlist, which he’s been curating since 2015, has become a cultural touchstone, known for its eclectic mix of old-school classics and fresh new tracks. Featuring everything from timeless legends to up-and-coming stars, the list is a music lover’s dream—and Tyla’s inclusion is a testament to her growing global influence.
As soon as Obama dropped his playlist, it quickly became a hot topic of discussion, according to Variety. “With summer winding down, I wanted to share some songs that I’ve been listening to lately—and it wouldn’t be my playlist if it didn’t include an eclectic mix. I hope you find something new to listen to!” Obama shared on social media, inviting the world to discover his latest favourites.
Tyla’s “Jump” is in stellar company on the playlist, sharing space with icons like Beyoncé, Jill Scott, and The Rolling Stones. The track is a standout from her debut studio album, Tyla, which dropped in March 2024. Featuring collaborations with American rapper Gunna and Jamaican artist Skillibeng, the Afro-trap anthem has taken the world by storm with its infectious beats and catchy lyrics.
The song’s success has been nothing short of meteoric. With over 24.9 million monthly listeners on Spotify, according to NME, and 22 million views on YouTube, “Jump” has become an international sensation. It even made waves on TikTok, peaking at No. 11 on the TikTok Billboard 50 in April and inspiring countless trends on the platform.
“Jump” is a deeply personal track for Tyla, who proudly represents her Johannesburg roots. The song opens with the lyrics, “They never had a pretty girl from Joburg, see me now and that’s what they prefer,” highlighting her journey from the vibrant streets of Jozi to the glamorous beaches of Ibiza. This rise to global stardom is beautifully encapsulated in the song’s chorus.
Obama’s recognition of Tyla is just the latest feather in her cap following the success of her debut album. The album features other hit singles, including the Grammy-winning track “Water,” which catapulted her to international stardom. At just 22 years old, Tyla made history as the youngest African artist to win a Grammy in the Best African Music Performance category.
Main Image: News24