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Tyla makes history as the first African to host Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, Joins Star-Studded Smurfs Movie Soundtrack

South African global music sensation Tyla is breaking new ground once again — this time by becoming the first African artist to host the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, marking a monumental moment for African representation on the international stage.
The announcement sparked a wave of celebration across social media, with fans, peers, and celebrities applauding Tyla for her history-making achievement and her growing influence as a role model for young Africans around the world.
Adding to the excitement, the Water hitmaker has also been revealed as one of the featured artists on the upcoming Smurfs movie soundtrack, joining an A-list roster that includes Rihanna, DJ Khaled, Cardi B, Desi Trill, Natania, and Subhi. The inclusion further cements her position as one of Africa’s fastest-rising stars on the global music scene.
Tyla will host the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards.
She becomes the first African to do so. pic.twitter.com/CdeTYt0agp
— ToonHive (@ToonHive) May 15, 2025
Since signing with Epic Records in 2021, Tyla has continued to ascend. Her breakout year saw her join Chris Brown’s European tour in 2023, while artists like Travis Scott and Marshmello elevated her viral single Water with remixes that widened her global appeal.
Tyla has since teased her upcoming debut album, promising a genre-blending sound that showcases her versatility and elevates the sound of modern African pop on a worldwide scale.
The Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards 2025, hosted by Tyla, will air live on June 21, 2025, at 8 p.m. EDT, broadcasting from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. Fans can now cast their votes in 35 categories on KidsChoiceAwards.com, with top nominees including Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, and Kendrick Lamar.
While the full performer lineup and special celebrity appearances have yet to be revealed, one thing is certain: Tyla is poised to own the spotlight on one of youth entertainment’s biggest nights.
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