Tyla Turns Down Tiwa Savage’s Apology Following The ‘Coloured’ Remark

South African singer Tyla has publicly dissociated herself from Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage’s apology on her behalf regarding the use of the term “coloured.”

The controversy started after Tyla referred to herself as “coloured” during a U.S. interview, a term commonly used in South Africa to denote a specific mixed-race identity, but one that is viewed as derogatory in the United States due to its historical connotations.

During an appearance on The Breakfast Club, Tiwa Savage attempted to ease the backlash by apologising and explaining that, as a respected elder, she normally takes responsibility in such instances. “In that case, it wasn’t clearly communicated… on her behalf, we are apologising,” Tiwa said.

Her intervention was met with disapproval from many South Africans, who accused her of speaking for Tyla without fully grasping the cultural context of the term.

Tyla subtly pushed back against Tiwa’s gesture herself. At the Global Citizen Festival in New York, she declared “Sorry, I am not sorry” immediately prior to performing her song Mr Media. Tyla’s reaction was perceived as a rejection of Tiwa Savage’s apology, and a confirmation of her original position.

Clips of the moment soon spread widely online, with thousands of South Africans praising Tyla for confidently asserting her identity and not allowing others to speak on her behalf.

Looks like Tyla seemingly responded to Tiwa Savage’s apology on her behalf during her Global Citizen Festival performance

“Sorry, I’m not sorry” 👀 pic.twitter.com/JzLXas9pBU

— NOTJUSTOK (@NOTJUSTOK) September 29, 2025