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GarageBand Hacks: Creating Professional-Sounding Tracks Without Expensive Plugins

October 1, 2024

GarageBand is often seen as an entry-level DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), but it has powerful tools that, when used effectively, can create professional-quality tracks. Many indie musicians and...

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Solving the General MIDI Program Change Dilemma in Ableton

October 1, 2024

When working with MIDI in Ableton, one might notice that although MIDI clips can send program changes, most of Ableton's native plugins don’t seem to respond to these changes effectively. This can...

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Escaping 'Tutorial Hell': Stay Motivated and Actually Progress in Music Production

September 21, 2024

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Should You Write Music or Lyrics First? Solutions from Famous Creators

September 20, 2024

One of the most common challenges for songwriters is deciding whether to write the music or lyrics first. This can feel like a "chicken-or-egg" situation, but there's no one-size-fits-all answer...

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How to Plan the Perfect Release Day for Your Single or Album

September 20, 2024

Releasing a new single or album is a huge milestone for any musician. However, without proper planning, your work may not get the attention it deserves. It’s not just about putting the song online...

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Mastering the Low End: Compression Tips for a Tight Mix

September 20, 2024

When it comes to music production, getting the low end right can be tricky. Many producers face a common issue: after the initial mix sounds perfect, a few days later, the low end starts to feel...

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How to Turn a Bedroom into a Professional Home Studio on a Budget

September 19, 2024

For many aspiring musicians, the dream of creating a professional-quality home studio seems out of reach due to costs and space constraints. However, with the right strategies and tools, it's...

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Remote Music Collaboration: Tools and Tips for Seamless Production

September 18, 2024

Collaborating on music remotely has become more common, but as you’ve experienced, it can be a challenge to get it right. Audio latency, control sensitivity, and lack of real-time feedback are...

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How to Build a Loyal Fanbase Using Social Media in 2024

September 18, 2024

In today’s digital age, building a loyal fanbase is essential for musicians to thrive. Social media platforms have become powerful tools for connecting directly with fans, sharing music, and...

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Best Apps and Websites for Creating Instrumentals When You Don’t Play Instruments

September 18, 2024

As a songwriter, it can be frustrating to have melodies or lyrics in your head but no way to bring them to life without instrumental skills. Thankfully, with modern technology, there are apps and...

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How to Match Chords to Your Singing – Overcoming the Struggle

September 18, 2024

Creating music often feels like an intricate puzzle. You might have a melody that you love, but when it comes to pairing it with chords, you feel stuck. If you're in this situation, you're not alone.

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The Top 10 Free Tools Every Indie Musician Needs to Succeed

September 18, 2024

As an indie musician, creating professional music while sticking to a budget can be challenging. You might not have the resources to afford high-end software or pay for expensive marketing...

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How Tyla's "Water" is Making a Splash in the U.S. African Music Craze

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Photo Source: BBC

In recent times, the United States has seen a burgeoning interest in African music, a trend that has brought a refreshing diversity to the music scene. Leading this wave is the South African sensation Tyla, whose hit song "Water" has captured the hearts of audiences across the nation.

Tyla: A Rising Star

Tyla, hailing from Johannesburg, South Africa, has rapidly risen to international fame. Her unique sound, which blends traditional African rhythms with contemporary beats, has made her a standout artist in the global music industry. Her journey from a local talent to an international star is a testament to her exceptional talent and the universal appeal of her music.

"Water": A Cultural Phenomenon

"Water" isn't just a song; it's a cultural phenomenon. This track distinguishes itself with its catchy melody, vibrant beats, and Tyla's mesmerizing vocals. It's a song that transcends language barriers, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in its rhythmic flow. The music video, rich in color and African cultural elements, adds an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the song's appeal.

The song debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 in October, marking Tyla's first appearance on the chart. It shot to the top of the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart, spending 14 weeks at No. 1, and reached No. 7 on the Hot 100. Lewis credits the song's success to its blend of Afrobeats/Amapiano drum patterns with traditional R&B elements, appealing to a diverse audience globally.

"Water" also dominated the airwaves, maintaining the No. 1 spot on Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay for eight weeks. The strategy of leveraging Shazam, digital, and streaming success laid the groundwork for radio triumph. Remixes by Travis Scott and Marshmello played a significant role, adding layers and reaching broader audiences.

African Music in the U.S.: A Growing Trend

The success of "Water" in the U.S. is part of a larger trend of African music gaining popularity. Artists from across the African continent are finding enthusiastic audiences in the States, showcasing a wide range of styles and genres. From Afrobeats to Amapiano, the diverse sounds of Africa are resonating with American listeners, creating a vibrant and dynamic music scene.

Adding to this African music wave is the collaboration between Nigerian artist Rema and American singer Selena Gomez in "Calm Down." This track is a vivid example of how African artists are increasingly collaborating with mainstream American artists, creating a unique blend that appeals to a wide audience. "Calm Down" has resonated with listeners globally, showcasing the universal appeal of African rhythms mixed with familiar pop elements.