Apple Music names four rising African artists to its Up Next Programme

The selected artists are Xowié (South Africa), Syemca (Nigeria), BhadMayors (Ghana), and HEVI (Tanzania). They represent the next wave of African music stars, each bringing a distinct sound shaped by their regional influences.

Xowié is gaining attention for her genre-blending style, combining R&B, pop, and reggae to deliver raw, empowering anthems. Her recent single ‘Nobody’s Fool’ has set the tone for her forthcoming EP ALLO (A Little Long Overdue), with which she aims to reach a global audience.

Syemca continues to build on his success following his appearance on The Voice Nigeria. His music fuses highlife, R&B, and Afrobeat, and his upcoming EP BIPOLAR showcases a deeply emotional and experimental sound, underpinned by vivid lyricism and dynamic rhythms.

BhadMayors, an Afro-fusion duo made up of two brothers, bring a youthful and energetic edge to the scene. Their debut album The Good, The Bhad, The Terrible explores themes of ambition, identity, and modern African life, all delivered through a vibrant mix of Afrobeats and hip hop.

HEVI, whose work blends Afrobeat, R&B, and bongo flava hails from Njombe, Makambako. She has been praised for her emotionally rich storytelling, with singles like ‘My Rider’ signalling her growing influence in the region.

These four artists will be featured on Apple Music’s Up Next playlist, a genre-spanning showcase of rising talent curated by the platform’s editorial team. The initiative has previously helped launch the global careers of artists such as Burna Boy, Tems, Rema, and Victoria Monét.

The Up Next programme is part of Apple Music’s broader commitment to supporting emerging artists and amplifying diverse voices within the global music scene.

Listen to the full Up Next playlist here.