South Africa’s beloved song is now experiencing a revitalization. Over ten years since Liquideep enchanted listeners with their renowned track “Fairytale,” the classic has been reinterpreted by international sensation Tyla for her eagerly awaited second album, APOP. This modern take introduces the cherished song to a fresh audience globally.
The track, originally by the acclaimed duo Liquideep, became a signature piece during South Africa’s soulful house movement. With its poignant lyrics, catchy tune, and polished production, it solidified the duo’s status as one of the country’s key musical figures, continuing to resonate with fans years after it first came out.
Tyla’s new version honors the original while infusing it with a modern flair. This reinterpretation does more than revisit a classic; it serves as a homage to South African musical traditions, showcasing how enduring songs can adapt and inspire new listeners across different eras.
Looking back, Liquideep member Ziyon shared his appreciation for the song’s renewed relevance.
“When we wrote Fairytale, we never imagined it would still be finding new audiences all these years later. To hear an artist like Tyla, who is carrying South African music to every corner of the world, embrace the song is incredibly special. It reminds us that great music never really belongs to one moment in time. It evolves, it grows and it keeps connecting people.”
His fellow band member Ryzor shared similar thoughts, underscoring the significance of musical continuity.
“Every generation adds its own voice to the story. We’re proud that Fairytale has become part of that journey. Seeing a new generation discover the song through Tyla is incredibly rewarding because it shows how South African music continues to inspire itself while reaching the world.”
During her APOP listening event in Portugal, Tyla also recognized Liquideep’s impact on African music, acknowledging the duo’s work as a key influence on her artistic path. Her choice to reinterpret “Fairytale” emphasizes the lasting legacy of Liquideep’s music, which helped define South Africa’s contemporary dance sounds well before Amapiano took the global stage.
Liquideep’s Commercial Manager Poobie Pillay referred to the remake as a significant cultural event that transcends just music.
He highlighted how this collaboration creates a link across generations and fosters opportunities to celebrate South African excellence internationally, demonstrating that timeless tracks can inspire new ideas and gain global recognition.
As African music continues to achieve remarkable worldwide popularity, Tyla’s version of “Fairytale” serves as a reminder that current success rests on the groundwork laid by earlier innovators. This powerful new rendition of Liquideep’s lasting classic embarks on an extraordinary journey—bridging the past and the present while showing that truly great songs never disappear; they simply find new expressions.
