Apple Music has announced four emerging African musicians as the latest participants in its Up Next artist development programme. The initiative, which highlights rising talent from across the world, has selected:
Toxic Lyrikali (Kenya)
Raevin (Ghana)
Efue (Nigeria)
Trillion Petals (South Africa)
This prestigious programme showcases artists selected by Apple Music editors based on their originality, cultural impact, and potential for global reach. It has previously featured international stars who’ve since gained global recognition.
This prestigious programme showcases artists selected by Apple Music editors based on their originality, cultural impact, and potential for global reach. It has previously featured international stars who’ve since gained global recognition.
Artist Highlights & Quotes.
Toxic Lyrikali (Kenya)Known for his "mboka doba" (music is a job) ethos, he recently released the dancehall-inspired single “Backbencher,” following earlier tracks like “Chinje” and “Thugnificent.”“I am so happy and honoured to be selected for Up Next East Africa,” he said.
Raevin (Ghana)His sound blends Afrobeats, Afropop, and Highlife. He first gained attention with a feature on King Promise’s Terminator and released his debut EP Feelings of Raevin, produced by Grammy-nominated Killbeatz.“Being named one of Apple Music’s Up Next artists, especially representing Ghana, means the world to me,” he shared.
Efue (Nigeria)Recognized for songwriting and a fusion of Afro-soul, Afrobeats, house, and soul, Efue’s debut EP Memorabilia is written like a series of letters and includes tracks such as “Beauty and The Beat” and “Wanna Know.”“I am grateful to Apple Music for this opportunity and super excited to exceed all your expectations,” she said.
Trillion Petals (South Africa)Also known as Alison Rachel, previously of the band HONEYMOAN, she recently released her debut EP Hill After Pale Hill, featuring the single “Lucky Girl Mantra.” Her art mixes analog experimentation with indie-rock styles.“I’m thrilled to be chosen for Up Next South Africa,” she commented.
These four artists now join a growing list of African talents spotlighted by Apple Music via the Up Next playlist, an editorially curated platform intended to elevate new voices to a global audience.
Summary Table for Quick Posting.
Artist Country Genre & Highlight Quote
Toxic Lyrikali Kenya Dancehall / Hip-hop: “Backbencher” Proud to represent East AfricaRaevin Ghana Afrobeats / Afropop / Highlife EP Honoured to represent GhanaEfue Nigeria Afro-soul / Afrobeats / House EP Excited to exceed expectationsTrillion Petals South Africa Indie-rock fusion, analog-driven EP Thrilled to represent South Africa