International singer and songwriter, Jaguar Wright. Picture: Instagram/jaguarwright
Jaguar Wright has gained a reputation for calling out the entertainment industry, often dividing opinions.
While some dismiss her as “crazy” or “delusional”, others believe her claims hold some truth to it, especially in light of recent controversies involving Hollywood figures like P. Diddy.
This time, Wright has shifted her focus to rising South African star Tyla, criticising the young singer’s provocative image.
Tyla, who gained global fame with her hit “Water”, has become a household name, but it has not been without scrutiny.
Wright expressed concern during a recent conversation, questioning the over-sexualisation of the young artist, particularly given the age range of her fanbase.
“I don’t believe in what they’re doing to her,” Wright stated. “She doesn’t look a day over 14 years old. You never see her fully dressed. She’s always half-naked. We always have to see her skin, we always have to see her body.
“Just because she comes from South Africa, it doesn’t mean every woman from South Africa is running around with a loincloth, gyrating her genitalia and her a**.”
Wright also highlighted the lyrics of “Water”, claiming they are inappropriate for Tyla’s younger fans.
“Can you blow my mind and set off my whole body? Make me sweat, make me hotter, make me lose my breath, make me water.’ Why would that be coming out of an eight-year-old’s mouth, dancing and gyrating,” she asked.
Her criticism extended to the potential dangers of young fans imitating such behaviour, drawing attention to the risks posed by predators.
“Meanwhile, the local pedo who has kids over for pizza is watching Tyla videos,” Wright said, painting a grim picture of how such exposure could be exploited.
Of course, fans weighed in.
“I am South African, and I agree with what you are saying. I have been saying this for months! Yet people think I'm just not happy for one of our own,” @yolandenonhlanhladlamini1944 wrote.
@cedarinlebanon2908 wrote: “As a South African🇿🇦💕 I fully agree with Ms Jaguar, I've been saying that they're exposing her body more than her music. Hollywood is evil. May God protect these young stars against these predators 😢.”
While @tapiteasy added: “I'm American and I agree. I wonder if the young lady had any regular clothes. Some are saying this is what she wants.
“She may want the fame but once you sign the contract the record company owns you and they decide what your image is going to be. If you don't agree, they drop you.”
For Tyla, who has proudly represented South Africa on the global stage, this raises important questions: Is her success being overshadowed by a curated image that caters to a global market?
Or is she, as some suggest, a victim of an industry notorious for exploiting young talent?