SA: Apple Music features Blxckie on Africa Rising programme

Africa Rising is an exclusive artist development programme and companion playlist geared towards identifying, showcasing and elevating rising talent and introducing the next generation of African superstars.

The programme lets Apple Music select six artists every year, whom each receive a minimum of two months’ editorial support across the Apple Music platform including Apple Music 1 radio.

“This is major,” Blxckie said. “I am so honoured to be recognised as the new Africa Rising Artist. The faces of the global music industry are rapidly changing thanks to platforms and features like this on Apple Music.

“For me and my music to be chosen as a significant role player in this story is history in the making for someone like me. I want those that have believed in me before now to be proud. Let’s make Africa Rise.”

This is not the first time Blxckie has been part of Apple Music’s campaigns. In March, the 21-year-old artist was featured on the streaming platform’s Up Next monthly global programme, which is designed to identify, showcase and elevate rising talent.

Born Sihle Sithole, Blxckie gained street cred as a member of the Durban hip hop collective Clout Internet Boys. He moved to Johannesburg where he built an almost cult-like fan base through a steady stream of singles, freestyles and music videos released during the COVID-19 lockdown. He is known for using his soothing melodic voice over a variety of different beats to create fresh new sounds. His sound is described as “melodic trap with an edge”. He has worked with LeoDa Leo, Yuang, 808 Sallie and LucasRaps.