South Africa’s breakout pop star pivots from Amapiano to a sleeker, more global sound on “Is It”, a flirty summer single that hints at a bold new chapter. But does the track live up to the buzz, or simply surf the current wave?

Tyla’s new single, “Is It”, officially landed on 11 July, opening a fresh sonic chapter. This isn’t just a new song. It marks the beginning of a shift in sound, tone and direction. The question is: what does it all mean?

Up to now, Tyla has been defined by her ability to translate the rhythms of Johannesburg into a global sound. Her signature blend of Afro-pop with Amapiano flourishes put her on the map. Tracks like “Water”, “On and On” and “Truth or Dare” didn’t just build her sound, they shaped her presence. “Water” made history, becoming the first song by a South African soloist in over half a century to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. Her debut album, TYLA, released in March 2024, received critical acclaim and broke into the top 25 in several countries.

But the spotlight brings its own weight. Once you have been crowned the face of a movement, how do you step outside of it?

That’s what makes “Is It” such a pivotal release. Sonically, it follows the path set by May’s single “Bliss”, steering away from strictly Afrocentric references and stepping into a more global pop landscape. The bounce is still there, anchored by crisp percussion and smooth production. But there is a clear desire to explore new territory.

Lyrically, the track is playful. Tyla frames the song around a series of teasing questions. “Is it the men that I don’t miss? Or am I coming on a little strong?” she asks, before cheekily suggesting that being told “don’t” only makes her want it more. It feels like a casual confession wrapped in a mood-lifting summer rhythm. As Tyla put it, this track is part of her exploring a “new version” of herself, with a focus on “bringing back fun in music”.

The video, directed by Aerin Moreno, plays into this lightness. Set in a single evolving space, Tyla shifts from solo choreography to dancing with a partner, before blending into a crowded nightclub. The location never changes, but the energy does. Her performance remains the anchor, once again showcasing the physicality that has become core to her identity. Her dance routines continue to spark mass participation, just as they did with “Water” and “Push 2 Start”.

There is always pressure after a debut like hers. Most artists would extend the moment with deluxe editions, more visuals or extended touring. Instead, Tyla is already pointing toward something new, with a summer mixtape titled WE WANNA PARTY expected in the coming months. It is a confident decision. In 2025 alone, she has been on the Met Gala carpet, performed at Coachella and hosted the Kids’ Choice Awards. The spotlight is bright, and the expectations are higher than ever.

“Is It” arrives at the intersection of intention and anticipation. For fans, it is another strong addition to a growing catalogue. For observers, it may feel like the early steps of a sonic pivot still in progress. Tyla no longer appears content to stay within one genre, but the landscape she is entering is crowded. To truly stand out, she will need to lead the sound, not follow it.

As a standalone track, “Is It” is light, catchy and confidently delivered. It keeps us moving and gives her room to evolve, even if it stops just short of being a breakout moment. In our view, it’s a solid 3.8 out of 5. A stylish and deliberate next step.

TYLA’S “IS IT” JUST DROPPED. BUT IS IT HYPE OR HEAT?

‘TOUCH IS A MOVE’ SOUNDS LIKE MEMORY IN MOTION