Tot Lul Yual Yoa, professionally known as TLY Yoa, is a South Sudanese songwriter, dancer, adviser, and recording artist rooted in Reggae, Dancehall, Hip Hop, and Afrobeats.
Before becoming a singer, TLY Yoa was influenced by the musical talents within his family. His father, Lul Yual Yoa, and his elder sister, Nyajuok Lul Yual, were talented and helped inspire his early connection to music. His family’s musical influence also includes his sister, professional singer and artist Nyapal Lul Yual. Growing up around talented family members strengthened TLY Yoa’s passion for music and encouraged him to pursue his own artistic journey.
Born in Malakal Town, South Sudan, on 08/05/1989, and originally from Nasir County, Upper Nile State, TLY Yoa grew up in Malakal among friends from different tribes and cultural backgrounds. Speaking Arabic and experiencing diverse communities from an early age helped shape his appreciation for unity, peace, and cultural connection. For TLY Yoa, music is more than entertainment—it is a natural part of his identity and a powerful platform for bringing people together and inspiring positive change.
In 2009, TLY Yoa developed a serious interest in recording music. At the time, however, Malakal Town had no recording studio, making it difficult for emerging artists to professionally record their work. Determined to pursue his passion, he travelled to Kampala, Uganda, where he recorded his first music in 2011 at Nemix Studio, working with producer Adala.
Since those early beginnings, TLY Yoa has continued to build his artistic journey through songwriting, performance, dance, and creative expression. His music reflects his roots, personal experiences, and commitment to messages of peace, unity, identity, and positive social change.
Today, TLY Yoa continues to develop his sound and artistic identity while using music as a voice for connection and change. His artistic message is captured through his signature phrases, “Peace Mal Ke Kondial” and “Voice for Change,” representing his vision of using music to inspire communities, promote peace, and connect people through music.