Apple Music has unveiled its newest featured artist in the Africa Rising artist development initiative, and it’s none other than Nkosazana Daughter, an exceptional Amapiano singer-songwriter hailing from KwaZulu-Natal.
KAMPALA, UGANDA | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Apple Music has announced the inclusion of Nkosazana Daughter, an Amapiano singer-songwriter from KwaZulu-Natal, as the latest featured artist in its Africa Rising program.
With her recently released debut album, she expresses her gratitude to Apple Music and her listeners, highlighting the transformative impact on her life.
In a statement to Apple Music, Nkosazana Daughter expressed her excitement, saying, “I am over the moon to be the cover star of Africa Rising for my debut album that’s just dropped! Thank you to Apple Music and to all of you beautiful people listening. Life is changing.”
A Trailblazer in the Amapiano Genre
Nkosazana Daughter has emerged as a prominent voice in the Amapiano music scene, gaining recognition through her collaborations on several chart-topping singles.
Notably, her contributions to tracks such as “Dali Nguwe” by Wanitwa Mos & Master KG, “Sofa Silahlane,” “iSoka” by Kabza de Small, “Thula” by Lowsheen, and “Nomathemba” by DJ Givy Baby have garnered millions of streams, propelling her to the forefront of the genre.
Uthingo Le Nkosazana: A Musical Journey
Listeners can now stream Nkosazana Daughter’s debut album, “Uthingo Le Nkosazana” (2023), in Spatial Audio on Apple Music. Comprising 14 tracks, the album offers a captivating exploration of Amapiano’s diverse moods and grooves.
Nkosazana Daughter’s engaging talent takes center stage, backed by an impressive lineup of Amapiano stars such as Master KG, Kabza de Small, DJ Maphorisa, Chronical Deep, Tyler ICU, Major League DJz, Makhadzi, Young Jonn, and more.
The album’s title, “Uthingo Le Nkosazana,” derived from the Xhosa language, signifies “rainbow daughter” and delves into themes of life, love, and her profound connection to her traditional roots.
Africa Rising: Promoting African Talent
Nkosazana Daughter joins the esteemed roster of artists recognized through Apple Music’s Africa Rising program. This exclusive artist development initiative, accompanied by a dedicated playlist, serves as a platform to identify, showcase, and uplift emerging talent from Africa.
Apple Music meticulously selects six artists each year, providing them with a minimum of two months’ editorial support across the platform.
Additionally, a launch interview with Nadeska on Apple Music 1 further amplifies their exposure. Noteworthy Africa Rising alumni include Omah Lay, Manu Worldstar, Tems, Amaarae, Ayra Starr, Yaw Tog, Blxckie, and Nikita Kering.
Apple Music’s commitment to African music extends to Africa Now Radio, hosted by LootLove, which is available in 33 Sub-Saharan African countries. The radio show features interviews with acclaimed artists and spotlights the vibrant music scene across the continent.
Continued Support for Emerging Artists
Nkosazana Daughter’s recognition as part of Apple Music’s Africa Rising program builds upon the platform’s history of championing African talent. Notable examples include Tems being selected as the Up Next artist in 2021, Rema in 2020, Burna Boy in 2019, and Mr Eazi as the inaugural recipient in 2017.
Apple Music’s Up Next program is a global initiative that provides a significant boost to emerging artists by showcasing their work and offering support.
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