Who coined the term “uppity African”? Quite frankly, from their exquisite taste in fashion, music, and food, every African featured on any streaming platform has been seen thriving in limitless abundance. This insult implies that one shouldn’t think too highly of oneself and should appear more docile when interacting with American culture. The bigotry associated with the concept of “uppity Africans” stems from the notion that individuals should diminish or shrink themselves to appear more grateful, as self-confidence is often viewed as being “uppity.” The term “uppity” carries deep-rooted implications of xenophobia towards individuals of African descent since the post-abolition era.
Historically, the word “uppity” was used to instill self-doubt in Black Americans who were successfully establishing themselves in their communities, implying that they were acting above their station in life. This trend provided a platform for some social media users to further explain their interpretation of the term “uppity Africans” and how it reflects the assumption that people need to view others as a token version of how they want them to be, ensuring they are seen as lesser.
For many decades, Africa has been stereotypically associated with conflict and disparity, leading to expectations that those from these cultural backgrounds display a level of humility when engaging with American culture. This narrow perspective fails to acknowledge the technological advancements, architectural marvels, and successful individuals within Africa. This skewed viewpoint arises from a desire to pigeonhole individuals into feeling inferior.
Tyla’s recent interviews and public appearances have sparked discussions about her understanding of American culture. This discourse began after her viral Breakfast Club interview, prompting Tyla to address any misconceptions on Instagram. Despite being open about her cultural identity and embracing her mixed heritage, Tyla has faced microaggressions and unjust labels. She has never denied her Blackness and embraces her heritage as someone of Zulu, Irish, Mauritian, and Coloured descent. In some of her earlier TikTok videos, she discusses her heritage and the ways she celebrates it through her hairstyles.
The term “uppity Africans” perpetuates the insidious nature of racism and microaggression in modern society. One might consider that the categorization of race varies across different parts of the world. In America, the “one-drop rule” predominantly defines one’s Blackness, while South Africa’s racial classifications were shaped by apartheid. Tyla proudly embraces her mixed heritage, and her identification as both a Coloured and Black woman should be celebrated, not discouraged.
Some may wonder how Tyla was even categorized as “uppity.” This label gained traction after a viral clip from the VMAs, which sparked divisive opinions. Despite her achievements and public appearances, Tyla’s actions have been misinterpreted, leading to unfair criticisms of her character. Shortly after the VMAs, X ignited controversy when Armon Wiggins called Tyla an “uppity African” in a tweet that went viral. This occurred after a clip circulated in which Tyla was seen asking Lil Nas X to hold her award for her song “Water.” Tyla later clarified that she did not ask Halle to hold the award.
On the Joe Budden Podcast, Joe Budden echoed Armon Wiggins’ sentiments, labeling her as “uppity” and entitled. He compared the Halle VMAs incident to her recent appearance at Usher’s show at Barclays Center earlier in September. In the clip, Usher approached Tyla during his performance. During their interaction, she respectfully chose not to allow him to dance behind her, but rather danced beside him. Many of her fans understand that she has recently featured her partner in her music videos, suggesting a level of consideration in her interaction with Usher. However, it is worth noting that earlier this year, in March, she canceled her world tour due to a silent battle with a back injury, which she disclosed in an Instagram post. Tyla’s recent updates on her back injury illuminate her struggles and the importance of self-care.
“Your back is such an important part of your body, so I just want to take my time. I’m looking forward to getting better and stronger. It’s a moment to pay attention to myself and slow down. I feel like it’s also something that happened because maybe God wants me to slow down, just breathe, and take care of myself,” she told People. Throughout her accomplishments, Tyla’s journey is marked by resilience and a commitment to her well-being.
Additionally, some have argued that Tyla exhibits a sense of entitlement based on her recent success in winning the Best Afrobeat Award. During her acceptance speech at the VMAs, Tyla advocated for Amapiano music, stating, “I know there’s a tendency to group all African artists as Afrobeat. Even though Afrobeats has opened doors for us, African music is so diverse.” Tyla emphasizes the need to appreciate the richness of African musical traditions beyond the confines of Afrobeats.
In her October 2019 debut single “Getting Late,” she and her Johannesburg producer Kooldrink introduced a new style of pop mixed with slow-tempo Amapiano melodies to the world. When asked to describe Amapiano music, she stated, “I just feel like everything is so new and everyone is different, but we have a vibe that comes with us. Amapiano is a whole genre we created back home in South Africa, and it has dance moves: it’s a whole movement,” she told NME.
With the release of her self-titled debut album “Tyla,” she masterfully blends various segments of pop, R&B, Afrobeats, Amapiano, and other genres into her collection of songs.
Therefore, there should be no issue with her asserting in her VMA acceptance speech that her song “Water” has had a global impact, demonstrating that African music can be considered pop music. She acknowledges and gives credit to the monumental pillars of Afrobeats in her acceptance speech, shouting out Tems, Ayra Starr, Rema, Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido. Moreover, in an interview this year, Tyla stated that Tems is a Black woman who inspires her in music. She continues to express her admiration for Tems, saying, “She’s an African woman who’s killing the game while making monumental moves for African music and is a major inspiration to other African artists and musicians around the world,” she told New Music Podcast.
Cardi B defended Tyla on her X Space, relating to being viewed as a representative of her nationality on an international stage and the pride that comes with that responsibility. Tyla embodies someone who confidently maintains her cultural identity. This ideology that demands individuals to take pride in their diverse heritage while being humble in their interactions with American culture is heavily emphasized around this topic. However, this stance seems contradictory to the global idolization of being the “rich auntie” or striving to be the person who can walk into any room and own it. When someone exudes confidence and self-respect, it is often labeled as “uppity.” Tyla serves as an example of someone who may be unlikable to the insecure and those grappling with an inferiority complex.
This topic should be seen as a lesson for all: never be afraid to take up space and be confident in your accomplishments. It is crucial to challenge these unjust perceptions and support individuals like Tyla, who proudly embrace their heritage and strive for success in the face of adversity.