Tyla is keeping her foot firmly on the gas as she builds toward her upcoming sophomore album, APOP*. Her latest drop, “IS IT LOVE,” adds another layer to what’s already shaping into a strong global rollout.
The new single arrives on the heels of her recent collaboration “She Did It Again” with Zara Larsson and the fan-favorite “Chanel,” further reinforcing her ability to move comfortably between Afro-pop textures and mainstream pop appeal.
With “IS IT LOVE,” she leans into a more emotional space, pairing summer-ready sonics with the kind of vocal intimacy and storytelling that has quickly become her trademark. At this point, it’s hard to argue against the trajectory; she’s no longer just South Africa’s breakout name; she’s operating fully as a global pop force.
Sonically, “IS IT LOVE” keeps things smooth and controlled rather than explosive. Instead of the heavy, percussive log drum bounce often associated with Afro-fusion hits, the production settles into a clean, mid-tempo groove. It feels airy and unforced, leaving plenty of room for her soft falsetto and conversational delivery to sit right at the center.
The result is a polished, late-night kind of record, minimal but emotionally loaded, the type of song that lingers.
Lyrically, Tyla leans into the uncertainty that comes with modern relationships. “IS IT LOVE” plays like a gentle but persistent questioning of a partner’s intentions, moving between vulnerability and emotional surrender without ever feeling forced.
Rather than relying on predictable pop hooks, she builds the track around a flowing melody that sneaks up on you and stays there long after it ends. It’s another sign that her songwriting is evolving in real time alongside her rising global profile.
This release also caps a packed run for the fast-rising star. She’s scheduled to perform at the Mawazine Festival in Morocco, adding another major international stage to her growing résumé.
Recently, she also took part in FIFA World Cup-related celebrations, performing South Africa’s national anthem during the opening ceremony in Mexico City, before later joining Future in Los Angeles for a performance of the official 2026 World Cup anthem, “Game Time.”
Listen to “Is It Love” HERE