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Reaction To Tyla’s ‘Water’ Live Performance Sparks Comparison Debate With Ayra Starr [Watch]

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South African music star Tyla has performed her hit song ‘Water’ for the first time on live television with the video generating reactions on social media.

The footage of the South African diva performing the smash song at the BIANCA 2023 program was uploaded on Wednesday by ‘Charts Africa’ on X (previously known as Twitter), with a certain reaction drawing comparisons to Nigerian superstar singer, Ayra Starr.

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Fans took to comparing the style of music and dance moves deployed by both singers with others disapproving the comparison.

Tyla, 21, and Ayra Starr, 21, previously worked on the song “Girl Next Door” in May, and Tyla expressed her delight at collaborating with the Afrobeats sensation.

I absolutely loved working with Ayra Starr on our new single, ‘Girl Next Door,’” Tyla said in a press release. “She’s such a talented artist, and I feel like our energies really came together to create something special. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!”

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On Wednesday, Charts Africa posted: “Tyla performing #Water for the first time on live television.”

READ ALSO:FULL LIST: Burna Boy, Tems, Ayra Starr, Asake Earn 2023 BET Award Nominations

The comparison, however, strted when @_dhemii said:
Tyla is who Ayra Starr thinks she is.”

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@anthony_fedora replied:

“Ayra Starr is exactly who she thinks she is, g** with that downplaying another person in other to elevate another.

“You can admire Tyla without trying to put an equally beautiful and talented Ayra Starr down.”

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@AbiodunRaphiat alao said: “Nigerians and their insecurity attitude, why are you comparing your artist to SAans artists. Always looking for rivalry in everything,
Tyla is not copying your Ayra star
Tyla is a queen on her own 👑 and she’s gonna shine for a very long time.”

@smilenelisa commented:

“Y’all are so weird Ayra Starr is one of the few artists that has always hyped Tyla before she blew up don’t try and pit these two talented ladies against each other, anyway stream Girl next door by Tyla ft Ayra Starr.”

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@pinkyswearand1 posted:

“Two bad bees can co-exist and we love them equally . Tyla is who she thinks she is and Ayra Starr is also who she thinks she is and personally I and a whole lot of other people love them like that.”

READ ALSO: Burna Boy, Ayra Starr’s Songs Make Obama’s Summer Playlist

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@BryanJustin7 posted a video of Tyla and Aura singing together with the caption: “Tyla & Ayra ♨️”

@Ellsx_ said:

Ayra and tyla are like the same to me lmaoo just different skin tones and accents. African baddies 😮‍💨”

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‘Water’ by Tyla

Tyla recently made Billboard Hot 100 history which is her first career entry on the chart as she becomes the youngest South African musician to appear on the list which is the most popular music ranking chart in the US, published weekly.

The viral hit song debuted on the Billboard Hot 100, after trending for several weeks on TikTok as Water is the first solo song by a South African musician to appear on the chart since jazz legend Hugh Masekela’s Grazing in the Grass 55 years ago.

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The TikTok dance challenge has also popularised the South African Bacardi dance routine to a global audience.

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“Tyla debuts at number 67 on this week’s Hot 100. It is her first career entry on the chart,” US music and entertainment magazine Billboard, which compiles the list, said on Monday, ahead of the release of the week’s list.

Tyla also reacted to the news on X, formerly Twitter.

I’m a South African girl born and raised in Johannesburg. This is crazy,” she said.

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READ ALSO: Singer Ayra Starr Makes Billboard ’21 Under 21′

Released in July, Water started gaining popularity in August when Tyla, whose full name is Tyla Laura Seethal, started sharing TikTok videos of herself dancing to it.

The song fuses a mix of genres, including Afrobeats, pop, R&B, and Amapiano, a South African style of electronic dance music.

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Water has so far surpassed 3.6 million views on YouTube and attracted 10.7 million monthly Spotify listeners for Tyla.

Water has also ranked on other music charts in the US and UK, including the Billboard Afrobeats and R&B charts.

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Top 6 Movies Produced By Late Kayode Peters

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Popular Nigerian filmmaker, Kayode Peters, has died in Canada after a prolonged illness.

Contents
1. 13 Letters (2021)
2. Crazy Grannies (2021)
3. I Am Nazzy (2022)
4. Survivors (2022)
5. Dream Job (2021)
6. Teardrops (2024)

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The news of his death was announced by his family via his official Instagram page on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

Fans, actors, and colleagues in the entertainment industry are mourning the sudden loss of a man who played a vital role in shaping modern Nigerian comedy and filmmaking.

READ ALSO:Nigerian Filmmaker Dies In Canada

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Peters first gained prominence for directing the iconic comedy TV show Papa Ajasco and Company.

He later produced the hit sitcom Flatmates, which featured major stars like Basketmouth and Okey Bakassi. These shows became household favourites across Nigeria.

Beyond television, Peters made a strong mark in Nollywood with a string of successful films.

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Below are six of his most notable movie produced by Kayode Peters:

1. 13 Letters (2021)

Directed by Peters and released on GidiBoxOffice, 13 Letters starred Kunle Remi, Bimbo Ademoye, and Teddy A.

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READ ALSO:Filmmaker Unveils Project On Environmental Degradation In N’Delta

The film explored the emotional fallout of social media call-outs from ex-lovers. Its relatable storyline and emotional depth made it a viral hit.

2. Crazy Grannies (2021)

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Co-directed with Tope Alake, this comedy follows three grandmothers who break free from societal expectations in search of fun and freedom.

Featuring Shaffy Bello and Ngozi Nwosu, the film delighted audiences with its humour and vibrant energy.

3. I Am Nazzy (2022)

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Starring Nancy Isime and Jidekene Achufusi, I Am Nazzy is a body-swap comedy that examines identity and fame. The film was praised for its refreshing storyline and comedic timing.

4. Survivors (2022)

This comedy-thriller features popular skit makers Mr. Macaroni, Broda Shaggi, and MC Lively. It tells the story of two unemployed friends who unwittingly get involved in a kidnapping plot, leading to a series of chaotic events.

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READ ALSO:What To Know About Late Nigerian Movie Producer, Kayode Peters

5. Dream Job (2021)

A motivational drama that explores themes of ambition, disappointment, and second chances. Dream Job resonated with young Nigerians striving to achieve their dreams in the face of adversity.

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6. Teardrops (2024)

A deeply emotional family drama centered on love, loss, and resilience. Teardrops is regarded as one of Peters’ most heartfelt and mature works.

In addition to the movies produced by Kayode Peters and his achievements in film and television, he also gained recognition for his stage plays and short films, including Doll House, Dead Rite, and Road to Friendship, which were featured at various film festivals.

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One of his earliest contributions to the industry was Crossworld Blues, the first comedy series to air on DBN TV. Its success made Peters one of the pioneering figures in Nigerian television comedy.
(TRIBUNE)

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What To Know About Late Nigerian Movie Producer, Kayode Peters

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Popular Nigerian filmmaker, Kayode Peters, has died in Canada. The news of his death was shared via his official Instagram page on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

Fans, actors, and colleagues in the entertainment industry are mourning the sudden loss of the man who have contributed to shaping modern Nigerian comedy and filmmaking.

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Here are things to know about late Kayode Peters:

Kayode Tunde Peters was born on September 25, 1975, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Nigerian Filmmaker Dies In Canada

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Peters studied English Language at the University of Lagos, Akoka, where he obtained his first degree. His education and early involvement in theatre at the university played a major role in shaping his storytelling career.

The late movie producer was of Yoruba descent and proudly Nigerian. He practised Christianity throughout his life.

Kayode Peters was married to popular Nigerian model, actress, and dancer, Tayo Sobola. The couple kept their personal life mostly private, choosing to focus on their careers.

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The deceased first became well-known for directing the comedy TV show Papa Ajasco and Company. He later produced the hit sitcom Flatmates, which starred big names like Basketmouth and Okey Bakassi. These shows became favourites in many homes across Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Kanayo O Kanayo Cautions Filmmakers Against Misleading Costumes In Movies

In 2021, Peters directed the movie 13 Letters, which streamed on Netflix. The film starred Kunle Remi, Bimbo Ademoye, and Teddy A.

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Peters also played a big role in training and supporting young actors. Many new stars got their first big breakthrough through him.

One of his earliest works was Crossworld Blues, the first comedy series aired on DBN TV. It was a big success and made him one of the first names in Nigerian TV comedy.

Peters also worked on stage plays and documentaries. His stories often showed everyday Nigerian life, culture, and humor.

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He was known for making people laugh while also sending strong messages through his work.

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Nigerian Filmmaker Dies In Canada

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Renowned Nigerian filmmaker, director, and actor Kayode Peters has died. He passed away in Toronto, Canada, on the morning of Saturday, June 28, 2025, after a prolonged illness.

The announcement was made by his family through a statement posted on his official Instagram page.

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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved, Kayode Peters Adewumi, who passed on peacefully this morning June 28, 2025 in Toronto, Canada,” the statement reads.

READ ALSO:Tragedy Hits Nollywood As Another Actress Dies

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Kayode Peters. (@kayodepeters1)

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“KP braved, challenged and conquered a long time illness until his last breath this morning.

“KP, a cherished son, husband, father, brother, and friend, a gifted film maker, actor and producer whose work inspired many. Beyond his talent, it was his kindness, warmth, and generous spirit that truly defined him.

“He touched countless lives, both on and off the screen, and will be deeply missed.

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READ ALSO:Another Tragedy Hits Nollywood, As Actress Nkechi Nweje Dies

As we grieve this painful loss, we kindly ask for kindness and privacy while we take time to make arrangements for his funeral and to heal. Further details will be shared in due course.

“Thank you for your love, condolences, and continued support. — The Adewumi Family.”

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Peters earned acclaim for his direction and production of stage plays and sitcoms. He rose to prominence in the early 2000s as the creator of the popular comedy series Flatmates. His contributions to projects like Extended Family further cemented his place as a leading figure in Nigeria’s modern theatre and television scene.

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