There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when Skyla Tylaa enters a room. The South East London-born DJ, vocalist, and genre disruptor isn’t here to blend in. She’s here to move crowds, shake tables, and take up space with confidence and flair. Known for her high-energy amapiano sets and her bold sense of style, Skyla has become a force on stages across the globe. Now, with the release of her debut single Bombshell (Cheza), she steps into a new light as a vocalist and creative director of her own sound.
Featuring an all-star lineup including Diamond Platnumz, Tyler ICU, Khalil Harrison, and DJ Exit, Bombshell (Cheza) is more than a song. It’s a declaration. It draws from Skyla’s Jamaican-English roots, her deep love for house music, and her lived experience in the dance scenes of London, Accra, Lagos, and beyond. Stylish, self-assured and deeply grounded in her craft, Skyla Tylaa speaks to Fashion Magazine about personal growth, creative freedom, and how she’s carving her own lane in music, fashion and beyond.
“Bombshell (Cheza)” is such a powerful debut — not just as a DJ, but now stepping into the spotlight as a vocalist. What did this new creative leap unlock in you personally and artistically?
It’s a new, cool way to express myself. I’m still learning, and I love some parts more than others. I think doing vocals was just me freeing myself from the notion that a DJ only either produces or curates a track. Now, I have a new approach to putting together my sessions.
You’ve opened for Rihanna, performed on global stages, and now you’re shaping your own sound. How do you stay grounded and true to yourself in the midst of all the spotlight and momentum? Your energy on stage is electric — but what grounds you off-stage? Walk us through your ideal day of rest, beauty, and wellness.
Off stage, I stay grounded by my family and friends. On an ideal self care day, I sleeeeeppp!! After an incredible slumber, I really enjoy spending time with my niece and my nephews. They mean so much to me. Playing games with them and taking them out for fun activities are really important to me. I also LOVE cooking and having friends over to share meals. Also, just hanging out with my friends is a chilled experience I enjoy so much.
Fashion is clearly a huge part of your world. From DJ decks to red carpets — how would you describe your style DNA right now, and how has it evolved with your career?
My style is bold. It’s dark and full of attitude. I wear a lot of Rick Owens, along with independent designers that keep it raw and authentic. My style’s developed as I have in my career. It’s more defined and polished. I wear what I personally identify with rather than what you’d think a female DJ or artist typically wears.
Being a young Black woman in a male-dominated industry comes with its own challenges. What’s one moment that made you feel like you’ve claimed your space — unapologetically?
My headline show moments have been personal proof to me that I’ve claimed my space. When you walk into a sold out room where you and your team have sold hundreds of tickets, it’s a surreal feeling. When you do that repeatedly, it’s an even more surreal feeling. I’ve been blessed and privileged to experience that several times not only in London, but also in Lagos and Accra. Throughout the years, I work hard and smart, I show up, and I do my best. I plan to continue doing that so I never lose that surreal feeling.
From funky house and UK garage to amapiano and gqom — your musical influences are vast. What role did growing up in a Jamaican-English home play in shaping your cultural and sonic identity?
It plays a big role. I’m still drawing from those experiences time and time again. Bc there were diverse airwaves at home, my remixes are unique culture clashes. I’m often mashing up Amapiano with Afrobeats or hip hop or r&b or pop or dancehall.
What’s one beauty or skincare ritual you absolutely swear by — especially before going on stage or before a high-energy set?
Charlotte Tilbury setting is one of the things I can’t live without and a Mac lip liner. These are must haves before shows.
You’ve described your early musical curiosity — from playing instruments to going to BRIT School. What kept you coming back to music, even after moments of stage fright or setbacks?
It was my life experience. I often found myself in situations where I was the person with the aux. I’ve been asked for my opinion on new music, or asked to make playlists for friends, etc. Also, I’ve had consistent encouragement and inspiration from my sister who has supported me from the inception of my DJ career.
Beyond the “Bombshell” era, what’s on your mood board creatively this year — whether it’s fashion, travel, collaborations or personal goals?
I definitely plan to put out more music. I’m also trying to expand my soundscape to be a bit more encompassing of more types of house music. I’m exploring 3-step and Afrohouse at the moment. I’m definitely infusing them into more of my sets, and also introducing myself into those audiences. So, yea that’s what I’ve got on the top of my creative strategy for 2025.
Previdar celebrates bold voices. What’s one message you want your journey — from aux queen to global performer — to give to young women watching you break boundaries?
Believe in yourself and chase your dreams. I know it can seem scary at times, but if your dreams don’t scare you, then they’re probably not big enough. Believe you can accomplish your “wildest” dream. Don’t tap into your fears, tap into your confidence. BE OUTSIDE. BE IN THE CLUB. MUSIC IS HEALING. WE LISTEN AND IT DOESN’T JUDGE.