Apple Music Unveils Africa Rising: Class of 2026

Apple Music has officially announced the Africa Rising: Class of 2026, introducing a dynamic new cohort of artists poised to shape the future of African music through bold sonic exploration, compelling storytelling, and global ambition. The initiative continues Apple Music’s commitment to amplifying emerging African voices whose work reflects the continent’s depth, diversity, and growing influence on the world stage.

By Plot Mhako

Africa Rising is Apple Music’s flagship artist development programme dedicated to championing forward-thinking African talent.

The Class of 2026 brings together artists who are not only redefining their local scenes but are also actively pushing African music into new global conversations. This year’s cohort features Ciza, tg.blk, Gonaboy, Damie, Khid Ceejay, and ru., representing a wide spectrum of sounds, cultures, and creative approaches from across the continent.

Among the standout artists is South African singer Ciza, who is gearing up for what he describes as a breakthrough year. “2026 is going to be a huge year for me musically,” he says. “I’ll be releasing a lot, especially collaborations with global artists.” Fans can also expect his debut album, Ciza’s Palace, slated for release in the first quarter of the year.

Kenyan artist tg.blk brings an emotionally resonant sound defined by intimacy and connection. Known for her ability to translate vulnerability into music, she hints at an active year ahead. “In 2026, my fans can expect a lot more music. An album? Maybe! Just stuff so that we can interact,” she shares, adding that visuals will play a big role in her next chapter.

Representing Nigeria’s electronic underground is DJ and producer Damie, whose sound is rooted in deep, spiritual afro-house and tech influences. “Rhythmic, emotional, and designed for feeling,” he explains, describing music meant to be experienced as much as heard.

Also from Nigeria is ru., an Afro-pop artist emerging from Abuja with a strong emphasis on storytelling and emotional depth.

“I am a passionate storyteller,” they say. “That depth and soul, without compromising the message, is really where you find me.”

Khid Ceejay, another Nigerian artist in the cohort, blends Afrobeats with global pop sensibilities, embodying a new generation of emotionally fluent African pop stars. “Being selected feels so unreal,” he shares. “It’s a huge honour.”

Completing the class is Ghanaian artist Gonaboy, whose sound confidently draws from highlife, hip-hop, and lived experience.

“My sound is African,” he says. “Rooted in highlife, but I’d call it hip-hop.”

As part of the rollout, all six artists will be featured on a special edition of Apple Music’s Africa Now Radio, hosted by Nandi Madida, offering listeners an inside look into their creative journeys and future visions.

Since its launch in 2020, Africa Rising has spotlighted some of the continent’s most influential artists, including Tyla, Rema, Tems, Ayra Starr, Omah Lay, and Amarae. With the Class of 2026, Apple Music once again affirms that Africa’s musical future is not only bright but global.