Viewers Outraged Over Tyla's Scandalous Outfit at TODAY Show

Tyla's performance at the TODAY show plaza sent shockwaves through the audience, with her revealing outfit and suggestive dance moves igniting outrage among viewers.

The South African singer took the stage as part of the Citi Concert Series, showcasing her hit song 'Water'. She donned a patterned bikini top paired with low-rise pants featuring laced-up slits, topped off with a red newsboy cap adorned with a cheetah brim.

Her midriff was prominently displayed, accentuated by a sparkling belly ring. The choreography included provocative hip movements and booty-shaking that left many viewers aghast. This performance came amid heightened security measures on the TODAY show following an incident involving an intruder.

Comments flooded in on Instagram, with many expressing their disapproval of Tyla's outfit and performance. One viewer questioned, "I think she got confused, is the morning show not a gentleman's club?"

Another viewer expressed disgust, stating, "NOT appropriate AT ALL for the Today Show. I’ve watched all my life and never felt this disgusted by anything that’s been aired. Are there no boundaries?? I feel like we unsuspecting viewers are owed an apology for this error in judgment."

Some viewers were so appalled they switched channels, with one remarking, "Had to change the station. What were you thinking on today’s show? Vulgar."

Despite the backlash, Tyla found defenders among the audience. One commenter shot back, "Naked is not talent. Girl, this ain’t nothing but midriff. Get a grip. Women have been baring skin on stage for over 100 years now. Eventually, y’all are going to have to get over it."

Another supporter praised her, saying, "A lot of nasty haters in these comments. She is absolutely amazing!"

Yet another chimed in with enthusiasm for her outfit, adding fire and clap emojis.

Tyla has earned the title "Queen of Popiano," a genre blending pop with South African amapiano music. She began her music career in her final year of high school and self-released her debut single, 'Getting Late', featuring Kooldrink, in 2019, with its music video dropping in 2021.

Following the success of 'Getting Late', Tyla signed with Epic Records and gained international fame with 'Water' in 2023. This track served as the lead single for her self-titled debut album set to release in 2024. She has also released an EP titled 'We Wanna Party' in 2025 and her second studio album, 'A*Pop', which launched on July 24.

Tyla has shattered records as a musician, becoming the youngest African artist to win a Grammy Award at 22 years old. She has two Grammys to her name, awarded in 2024 and 2026 for Best African Music Performance.

'Water' made history as the first song by a South African soloist to enter the US Billboard Hot 100 in 55 years.