Roho named Apple Music Up Next artist in South Africa

As the latest Up Next artist, Roho will be featured on Apple Music’s South African Up Next genre-agnostic playlist, which comprises a dynamic class of new and emerging artists handpicked by Apple Music’s editors from around the world.

The announcement coincides with the release of his 14-track album, Vesper, which features artists such as Tyson Sybatelli, UNCOOL and NKLY. Some of the songs off the project include ‘Accra’, ‘Saints’, ‘Samael’ and ‘Legion’.

“Where I come from this rarely happens,” Roho told Apple Music. “I am really honoured to be a part of such a great and important moment. Thank you to Apple Music for selecting me as the Up Next artist for South Africa.”

Roho, born Gomotsegang Maponyane, was raised in Mokopane near Polokwane. His parents’ love of classic soul singers like Anita Baker and Ella Fitzgerald shaped his musical consciousness. He merged this influence with his own discovery and love for neo soul singers Jill Scott and Erykah Badu to produce a new age kind of soul that’s both sensitive and introspective, as highlighted by his debut album Ephemeral (2020).