Meet Sammy Soso, The Sonic Architect Behind Tyla’s ‘’Popiano”

Quick question: How Does a Visionary Like Sammy Soso Shape the Future of Music?

When it comes to the music, especially African music, only a few visionaries possess the ability to shape the very essence of contemporary sound. Sammy Soso is one such trailblazer, seamlessly merging genres and cultures to create music that resonates globally. His work on Tyla’s Grammy-winning hit “Water” not only earned critical acclaim but also redefined the intersection of pop, Afrobeats, and amapiano, setting the stage for a new musical era.

Born into a Ghanaian household in the U.K., Sammy Soso was surrounded by the vibrant sounds of West African music. His exposure to church choirs instilled in him a deep appreciation for harmony, while the artistry of producers like Timbaland, Stargate, and FNZ inspired him to explore music production. But it was the influence of Michael Jackson that truly sparked his fascination with pristine soundscapes.

Soso’s journey from an aspiring beatmaker to a globally recognized producer has been nothing short of remarkable. His early collaborations with British-Nigerian super-producer P2J provided a foundation in Afro-fusion production, allowing him to work on projects with Wizkid, Omah Lay, and Headie One. However, it was his partnership with Tyla that marked a turning point in his career.

The Genius Behind the “Popiano” Phenomenon

Tyla, the South African singer whose music fuses elements of pop, amapiano, R&B, and Afrobeats, needed a producer who could translate her vision into reality. The result? A genre she coined "Popiano"—a unique blend of amapiano rhythms, R&B vocals, Afrobeat percussion, and pop structuring—elements that Soso skillfully intertwines to produce anthems that feel both fresh and familiar.

When Tyla first envisioned her signature style, she struggled to find a producer who truly understood what she meant. Many tried to mix pop elements with amapiano beats, but something was always missing. It wasn’t until she crossed paths with Sammy Soso that the synergy clicked. His extensive experience with West African and global music, combined with his innovative production techniques, made him the ideal collaborator to bring Popiano to life.

Defining a New Era in Music Production

Soso’s versatility extends beyond Tyla’s catalog. His production credits include two tracks on Kali Uchis’ album ORQUIDEAS, contributions to Wizkid’s Made in Lagos and More Love, Less Ego, and multiple cuts on Headie One’s The Last One. His collaborations with industry heavyweights like LISA (BlackPink), Nija Charles, and Ali Tamposi showcase his ability to bridge genres, cultures, and artistic visions.

But what makes Sammy Soso’s work so compelling? The answer lies in his meticulous attention to detail. His productions are characterized by crystal-clear harmonies, precisely layered instrumentation, and an unrelenting commitment to sonic excellence. Whether it’s the pulsating beats of “Jump” featuring Gunna and Skillibeng or the smooth, emotive textures of “Truth or Dare,” every track he touches becomes an immersive experience.

The Future of Africa's Sound in the Good Hands of Sammy Soso

Sammy Soso is poised to become one of the most influential producers of his generation. He’s a Grammy-winning British record producer, songwriter, and DJ whose fingerprints are all over some of the most innovative music of our time. The industry is evolving, and so is Soso. His role in shaping the global music landscape will only grow stronger as Afrobeats and amapiano continue to gain traction worldwide. The world can and should expect more genre-defying hits, boundary-breaking collaborations, and sonic innovations that redefine how we experience music.