Apple Music, the music streaming platform, has announced Nigerian Afro-fusion artist Winny as the latest Up Next artist for Nigeria, joining the likes of Mr Eazi, Rema, Burna Boy, and Tems.
KAMPALA, UGANDA | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Apple Music has named Nigerian Afro-fusion singer Winny as its latest Up Next artist for Nigeria.
The artist development initiative aims to identify and showcase emerging talent, with Winny joining the ranks of other Nigerian artists like Rema, Burna Boy, Wavy The Creator, Mr Eazi, and Tems, all of whom have previously appeared on the Up Next platform.
Over the years, several Nigerian artists, including Burna Boy, Wavy The Creator, Rema, and Mr Eazi, have benefited from the Up Next programme. Others, more recently, include Ninety, Young Jonn, T.I Blaze, Pawzz, Novemba, Ogranya, Majeeed, Khaid, Browny Pondis, Ajebo Hustlers, Jaido P, and SGaWD.
Spotlighting Emerging Nigerian Artists
The Up Next programme aims to help aspiring artists gain global exposure and includes a dynamic class of new and emerging artists that are hand-picked by Apple Music’s editors from around the world.
In Nigeria, the programme has recently included other beneficiaries such as Pawzz, T.I Blaze, Browny Pondis, Ajebo Hustlers, Novemba, Ogranya, Majeeed, Khaid, Ninety, Young Jonn, Jaido P, and SGaWD.
Blending Reggae, R&B and Afrobeats
Born as Winifred Ohili Adanu and raised in Benue State, Winny’s sound blends reggae, R&B and Afrobeats to explore themes of love, compassion and identity. Jamaican artists Chronixx and Kranium, and Afrobeats icon Wizkid, are among her influences.
Reflecting on her success, Winny said, “It’s honestly been surreal being at this very point in my professional career to now being considered ‘Up Next’. Growing up in the city of Jos, Nigeria, listening to a lot of reggae and indigenous music inspired my sound. I’m grateful to everyone that has played a part in my journey and has been supporting me so far. Thank you for accepting my sound.”
The Up Next platform is part of Apple Music’s strategy to promote artists globally and increase their exposure to new fans.
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