Apple Music launches Africa Rising programme

The streaming platform says the programme will feature an African artist and companion playlist chosen by Apple Music's editorial team every two months. The playlist will highlight new and emerging artists on the continent across different genres.

Africa Rising follows the launch of Africa Now Radio in May and the Africa Now playlist in April.

"African music is a cultural melting pot of rich, diverse sounds and diasporic blends," Apple Music said. "From Dakar to Mombasa, Lagos to Cape Town, this playlist showcases the new sounds bubbling up from across the continent."

The first featured Africa Rising artist is Nigerian Afro-fusion musician Omah Lay, whose debut EP Get Layd has been the No 1 album on Apple Music Nigeria since its release in May.

Omah Lay launched his career as a member of the rap group Lil King. He later became a producer before switching to a solo career. His first hits 'Do Not Disturb' and 'Hello Brother' were released in 2019.

"I am overwhelmed, dreams do come true", he said. "I have always used Apple Music, seeing my favourite artists on playlist covers and features, but here I am looking pretty as Apple Music's first Africa Rising artist."

Nigeria’s DJ Cuppy, who is the host of Africa Now Radio, said: "I'm so excited that my fellow Nigerian Omah Lay is Apple Music's first Africa Rising artist. This new programme and its playlist will elevate the next generation of African superstars and bring them to the world."

The playlist features 83 songs and runs for almost five hours.

Listen to the debut Africa Rising playlist here.