Cardi B defends Tyla from online trolling and heritage criticism amid collaboration rumors

East Coast Radio reports that American rapper Cardi B has spoken out in defense of South African singer Tyla, responding to persistent online criticism the artist has faced since her rise to fame with the 2023 hit “Water.”

During a conversation with fans on X Spaces, Cardi B addressed the trolling directed at Tyla, saying the young artist has been unfairly targeted. She noted that Tyla rarely responds to such negativity, despite facing accusations of being an “industry plant” and criticism over her racial identity.

Some online users have questioned Tyla’s self-identification as Coloured — a term used in South Africa but considered offensive in parts of the United States — and have accused her of distancing herself from her Black identity. Cardi B compared this scrutiny to the body-shaming she endured during her pregnancies, suggesting that people often try to “beat” celebrities down emotionally.

Tyla has previously addressed her heritage in a June 2024 social media post, explaining she is of mixed Black/Zulu, Irish, Mauritian/Indian, and Coloured descent. She clarified that she is considered Coloured in South Africa and a Black woman in other parts of the world, emphasizing that she has never denied her Blackness.

Despite the online criticism, Tyla’s career momentum continues. She is rumored to be a potential feature on Cardi B’s upcoming album Am I the Problem, scheduled for release on September 19. Tyla is also confirmed to appear on Teyana Taylor’s upcoming album Escape Room, featuring alongside Jill Scott on the track “Pum Pum Jump.”

East Coast Radio notes that neither Cardi B nor Tyla has confirmed any collaborative projects, leaving fans to speculate about possible future releases.