Indie Afro-soul singer Njerae becomes the second East African artist after Nikita Kering in 2021 to represent Kenya and East Africa as Apple Music’s Africa Rising stars.
The recognition comes shortly after she released her new single “beg for it,” a love ballad that is already receiving support from fans across the region.
Other recipients in the class of 2025 include Nigerian Afrobeats artist and producer Kaestyle, South African singer-songwriter Lusanda, Nigerian singer, songwriter and producer Fola and rising Ghanaian beatmaker AratheJay.
The artist development program, which started in 2020, showcases the best and exciting emerging acts across Africa, exposing their music to new markets and giving their voice new ears.
“I am deeply honoured to be selected for the Africa Rising Class of ’25 and get the chance to represent Kenya and East Africa at large,” Njerae said in a statement to KBC Digital. “I am very excited for global audiences to listen to my music, as I believe this is a pivotal moment for the creative community in Kenya.”
Njerae has received great praise from key industry players for her outstanding work as a musician.
She was among the Hottest breakout artistes of 2024 according to Hot-list Africa. Her chart-topping single “Aki Sioni” was recently ranked 10th in Apple Music’s Top 100 (Kenya).
Her album ‘Unintentional’ remains in Apple Music Kenya’s Top 50 albums, two years after its release.
Additionally, in 2024, her fans rallied behind her, helping her scoop ‘Album of the Year award’ for ‘Unintentional’ at the inaugural Digital 254 Radio Awards.
