Ghana’s AratheJay joins Apple Music Up Next programme

The monthly development programme, established in 2017, has successfully promoted emerging musical talent over the years, featuring notable alumni like Rema, Burna Boy, Mr Eazi and Tems.

AratheJay was unveiled alongside other emerging African voices such as Chella from Nigeria and Ziggy4x from South Africa. This selection, curated by Apple Music editors worldwide, showcases a diverse range of emerging artists, broadening their audience reach.

In Ghana, AratheJay joins a growing list of new voices inducted into the programme, such as Josh Blakk, Lasmid, OliveTheBoy and Darkua, and he will be prominently featured across Apple Music’s Up Next playlist. 

“I feel truly privileged to be featured on Apple Music’s Up Next” he said. “Having my music recognised by the Apple team in this way is very meaningful for me and shows that good music really resonates across borders. But to be selected as a sort of representative of Ghana, a place that has shaped and inspired me throughout my life, is truly special. 

“Ghana’s vibrant culture, creativity, and energy have always been a part of my journey, and I’m deeply grateful to God for this moment. This recognition fuels my passion to continue spreading love, positivity, and purpose through my music while connecting with amazing fans across the world.”

Born Samuel Ofei Ankrah Badu, AratheJay, who spent most of his childhood in Kenya, boasts a sound shaped by Ghana’s cultural sounds. His national breakthrough arrived with a series of songs, notably, the Black Sherif-assisted ‘Jesus Christ 2’. 

His 2024 debut album Finding Nimo Series: The Capsule, blends highlife and Afrobeats, orbiting themes of love and optimism.