Apple Music is turning the spotlight on a new wave of South African talent with three exciting announcements this October. Emerging stars are stepping into the limelight across diverse genres, with Miči gracing the Isgubhu cover as a rising force in South African electronic music, Ziggy4x joining the Up Next program to elevate his unique hip-hop narrative, and Usimamane taking center stage as the Rap Life Africa featured artist. Each artist reflects Apple Music’s dedication to nurturing diverse voices and pushing South African music onto the global stage. Here’s a closer look at these artists and their journeys.

Apple Music Announces Miči As The Latest Isgubhu Cover Star

Apple Music announced that Afro House singer-songwriter and producer Miči is their October cover star for the Isgubhu feature. “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to geek out and share my favourite tunes,” she tells Apple Music. “Some of these tracks are old, some new, but all of them are classics in my view. I hope more people tap into this amazing scene we’re part of!” Born in Zimbabwe and raised in London, Miči’s musical journey began in church, leading her to collaborate with prominent South African DJs and producers, significantly impacting the local house music scene since 2021. Her latest album, feelings (2024), showcases a range of Afro-house tracks, created with renowned producers like Da Capo and Kayrendasoul.

Apple Music Announces Ziggy4x As Latest Up Next Artist In South Africa

Apple Music has announced Manenberg-based rapper Ziggy4x as the latest addition to its Up Next program, a global artist initiative spotlighting emerging talent. Ziggy4x, who only began his music journey a year ago, has already made waves with his debut track “Honne” and its remix featuring Maglera Doe Boy and Priddy Ugly. His style, heavily inspired by 50 Cent and his Cape Coloured roots, brings an authentic and imaginative flow that resonates widely across South Africa. Reflecting on his selection, Ziggy4x said, “Blessed is one word, pride is another. Being able to take my music further than just another local song played on the street corner is so special to me. I only hope this inspires more people like me to be truly themselves. Shout out to Apple Music, I’m Up Next!” His debut EP Gangsta Baby (2024), available on Apple Music, is a seven-track homage to Afrikaans culture, brimming with themes of loyalty, love, and confidence. As part of the Up Next program, he is featured on Apple Music’s South African Up Next playlist, a genre-spanning collection curated to expose a fresh class of global talent to wider audiences.

Apple Music Announces Usimamane As October’s Featured Artist For Rap Life Africa

Apple Music’s Rap Life Radio, presented by Ebro Darden, Apple Music’s Global Editorial Head of Hip-Hop and R&B, featured Umlazi-born rapper Usimamane. Influenced by a family with deep musical roots, Usimamane’s (real name Omuhle Simamane) early exposure to a diverse array of artists including Drake, 50 Cent, The Game, Brenda Fassie, and Boom Shaka, nurtured his burgeoning passion for music beyond simple appreciation. Having created a captivating fusion of Rap and Trap, fused with R&B melodies, he coined his style “fate music,” a genre that embodies hope, joy, and inspiration, with the intent to uplift and motivate individuals from all walks of life.