Grammy-winning South African star Tyla has publicly distanced herself from Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage’s apology made on her behalf over the use of the term “coloured.”
The controversy began after Tyla, during a U.S. interview, described herself using the word “coloured”, a term widely accepted in South Africa to describe a distinct mixed-race identity but considered offensive in the United States due to its historical context.
Seeking to calm the backlash, Tiwa Savage apologised during an appearance on The Breakfast Club, explaining that as an “elder,” she often assumes responsibility in such situations. “If that was not communicated well … on behalf of her, we apologise,” Tiwa said.
However, her intervention did not sit well with many South Africans, who criticised her for speaking on behalf of Tyla without fully understanding the cultural significance of the term.
Tyla herself subtly pushed back against Tiwa’s gesture. While performing at the Global Citizen Festival in New York, she declared, “Sorry, I am not sorry,” before launching into her track Mr Media. The remark was widely seen as Tyla rejecting Tiwa Savage’s apology and reaffirming her stance.
Clips of the moment quickly went viral, with thousands of South Africans applauding Tyla for asserting her identity and refusing to let others speak for her.
Looks like Tyla seemingly responded to Tiwa Savage’s apology on her behalf during her Global Citizen Festival performance
“Sorry, I’m not sorry” 👀 pic.twitter.com/JzLXas9pBU
— NOTJUSTOK (@NOTJUSTOK) September 29, 2025
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