Tyla SHOCKS Fans with Confession About ‘Smurfs’ Album Role Next to Rihanna — “I Didn’t Think They’d Let Me Sing with a Legend!” Behind-the-scenes drama, secret tracks, and blue magic revealed. The music world can’t believe what’s coming. This isn’t just a cartoon collab — it’s a cultural earthquake.

Tyla Opens Up About Appearing on the ‘Smurfs’ Album Alongside Rihanna (Exclusive)

South African pop sensation Tyla is making waves in every corner of the entertainment world this summer—and she’s doing it all with the kids in mind.

At just 23, the breakout star behind the global hit “Water” has taken on a whirlwind of projects that blend music, culture, and pure fun. Most recently, she surprised fans with a high-energy, family-friendly track on the upcoming Smurfs movie soundtrack—an album that also features music heavyweights like Rihanna, Cardi B, and DJ Khaled. With the animated film set to debut on July 18, the buzz around its soundtrack has been growing louder, and Tyla’s involvement is turning heads in both the music and movie industries.

In an exclusive conversation with Parade during rehearsals at the Santa Monica Barker Hangar, Tyla shared her excitement about being part of such an iconic franchise.

“It means a lot,” she says, smiling in between sound checks. “You know, being on, like, literally, The Smurfs is such a fun movie. I love the Smurfs, and I’ve always wanted to be on a fun type of soundtrack. So I think that one was really perfect. And, yeah, I don’t know—it’s just fun. I’m enjoying doing things like this. Like Kids’ Choice, The Smurfs… I feel like the kids also need some Tyla!”

The track, titled “Everything Goes With Blue,” is a vibrant and catchy anthem that ties in perfectly with the Smurfs’ aesthetic and message. For Tyla, it was more than just another song—it was a chance to embrace a lighter, more playful side of her artistry, and connect with younger audiences across the globe.

While fans were thrilled to see her name alongside Rihanna’s on the tracklist, Tyla admits that the two have yet to meet in person since the song’s release.

“I think Pharrell is the one [who] really, was speaking mostly about the music and everything that has to do with the movie,” she explains. “So [I haven’t met Rihanna] not as yet, no. But, I mean, I’m sure soon. I’m gonna see.”

The involvement of Pharrell Williams—both as a producer and creative collaborator—helped elevate the project. Known for his visionary approach to music and style, Pharrell has reportedly taken a strong interest in curating the album’s sonic palette. Tyla credits him with helping her shape her contribution into something that captures both the spirit of the movie and her own signature sound.

As if that weren’t enough, Tyla is also gearing up to host the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, airing live Saturday, June 21 at 8:30 p.m. PT/ET. With a busy schedule full of rehearsals, interviews, and surprise performances, she hasn’t even had time to test out one of the award show’s most iconic traditions: the infamous green slime.

“I haven’t felt it yet,” Tyla laughs, clearly amused. “So it’s gonna be a surprise. I’m not nervous. I’m excited low-key, but I’m just hoping it doesn’t blast me. Like, that’s the one thing I’m worried about. But I think it’ll be fun.”

The Kids’ Choice Awards marks another major milestone in Tyla’s already dazzling year. After winning her first Grammy in 2024 for Best African Music Performance and topping charts internationally, she’s expanded her brand far beyond the borders of music. With high-profile fashion endorsements, viral TikToks, and now animated soundtracks, Tyla is proving to be a multi-dimensional star with a deep sense of purpose—and fun.

Still, she remains grounded in her mission to inspire younger audiences and create joyful moments through her work.

“I feel like a lot of what I do now is more intentional,” she reflects. “Yes, I want to perform, to dance, to make people feel something. But also, I want the kids to see that you can be young, creative, and global—and still have fun doing it.”

Her work on The Smurfs album is a clear testament to that philosophy. While most pop stars might shy away from animated film projects, Tyla embraced the opportunity, viewing it as a refreshing change from her usual image and a chance to surprise fans.

“When they reached out, I was like, ‘Are you serious?’” she recalls. “I grew up watching The Smurfs, so being on this album—especially with Rihanna and Cardi and all—is surreal. It’s honestly one of the most random but coolest things I’ve ever done.”

And it doesn’t stop there. According to sources close to the production, Tyla is also in talks to voice a small character in an upcoming Smurfs spinoff series slated for 2026, though nothing has been officially confirmed.

If true, it would mark her first foray into voice acting—a natural next step for an artist who has spent the past two years redefining what a global pop star can be.

With her magnetic energy, boundary-pushing creativity, and unshakable confidence, Tyla is not only solidifying her place in music history—she’s becoming the voice of a generation.

And if that generation includes a few Smurfs along the way? Even better.

The 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards airs Saturday, June 21 at 8:30 p.m. PT/ET on Nickelodeon.
The Smurfs Movie hits theaters July 18, 2025, with the full soundtrack, including “Everything Goes With Blue” by Tyla, available on all streaming platforms the same day.