South African rising star Tyla and Lisa of BLACKPINK have more in common than their chart-topping hits. During a recent interview with Rolling Stone, titled, “How Lisa and Tyla Got the Whole World Dancing,” both artists revealed how their paths crossed in Los Angeles earlier this year when Tyla, preparing for her debut album release, played her entire album for Lisa in the studio.
Their bond was instant and genuine. During their reunion at L.A.’s Henson Recording Studios months later, both stars showed enthusiastic support for each other during their photo shoot.
How Tyla and Lisa Found Out About Each Other
Lisa, known worldwide as BLACKPINK’s main dancer, has been following Tyla’s career since discovering her viral “Water” challenge.
“I remember the first day I knew about you was from the “Water” challenge. You, dancing onstage, pouring water, and I was like, “Oh, my God, who is she?” And I started to follow your stuff more and more,” Lisa recalled.
Meanwhile, Tyla admitted being a long-time fan of Lisa, praising her edge and style in BLACKPINK.
“Girl, in Blackpink, you were my favorite. You brought some edge to the group, which was so cool. Your rapping and just the way you moved and the way you dressed was so cool.”
Tyla also added that she used to watch Lisa’s videos with her best friend regularly.
Tyla and Lisa Discuss Culture Representation
BLACKPINK is a four-member K-pop group, with Lisa being the only one of Thai descent. According to the rapper, she has proudly incorporated Thai elements in her music videos, including “LALISA” and “Rockstar.”
“When people see the music video, they just know right away: “It’s Thailand. She must be so proud.”
On the other hand, Tyla maintains her South African roots through amapiano music and traditional dance moves. “For me, it’s always been something that I wanted to do – to share my culture,” Tyla explained.
She shared that while it’s rewarding to share her culture, it can be challenging due to a lack of understanding from some people. She’s learned to distance herself from those who aren’t interested and is more focused in teaching those who are.
Challenges They Have Faced Going Solo and Growing Global
Lisa, after eight years with BLACKPINK, spoke honestly about the pressures of working alone.
“With the group, you’ve got your girls and they’re super supportive. When you have something, they give you the best advice. But me working alone is like, ‘Oh,'” she shared.
She’s currently working on her first solo album and will make her acting debut in White Lotus.
Tyla discussed her three-year journey creating her debut album, explaining her vision to blend African music with pop and R&B influences. “When I finally got it, I just went in. It felt like such a relief,” she said.
Both artists also opened up about managing fame and privacy. Lisa mentioned the challenges of constant public attention: “Sometimes you want to be with a bare face, with your pajamas, go out and eat.” During their downtime, both prefer staying low-key – Lisa enjoys time with her five cats and dog, while Tyla indulges in bed rest, TikTok, and movies.
Tyla and Lisa’s Plans For The Future
Looking ahead, both artists are excited about their future projects. Lisa plans to continue releasing music while filming White Lotus and eventually reuniting with BLACKPINK. Tyla wishes to show more of her personality while maintaining her privacy. “I just want to look back and be proud of every milestone I’ve achieved,” she said, adding that she’s inspired by how K-pop artists like Lisa create their own unique worlds through music and performance. “It made me want to create a Tyla world. A little tiger world.”
Tyla made history as the first South African artist in over 50 years to break into Billboard’s Hot 100, with “Water” reaching Number Seven. She also recently won two BET Awards for Best New Artist and Best International Act. Lisa, transitioning into her solo career while BLACKPINK takes a break, has released “Rockstar” and collaborated with Rosalía on “New Woman.”
You can watch the full video on Rolling Stone’s “Musicians on Musicians” below.
On October 15, their paths crossed at the historic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, which returned after six years with its first all-female performer lineup.
Lisa opened the night with her solo hit ‘Rockstar’, making a dramatic entrance on a motorcycle before joining her dancers. Tyla followed with a captivating medley of ‘Push 2 Start’ and ‘Water’, wearing Victoria’s Secret lingerie.
