This recognition kicks off Njerae ’s year on a high note, solidifying her as an established afro-soul singer in East Africa.

Indie Afro-soul singer Njerae has made her mark as the second East African artist, following Nikita Kering in 2021, to represent Kenya and the region as part of Apple Music’s Africa Rising Stars.

This recognition comes on the heels of her latest single, “Beg For It”, a captivating love ballad that has already garnered significant support from fans across East Africa and beyond

Indie Afro-soul singer Njerae

Other artists selected for the Class of 2025 include Nigerian Afrobeats artist and producer Kaestyle, South African singer-songwriter Lusanda, Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer Fola, and up-and-coming Ghanaian beatmaker AratheJay.

Launched in 2020, the artist development program highlights Africa’s most exciting emerging talent, helping to introduce their music to new audiences and expand their reach across global markets.

“I am deeply honored to be selected for the Africa Rising Class of ’25 and get  the chance to represent Kenya and East Africa at large. 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. Shout out to Apple Music for believing in  me and supporting my journey.”

– Njerae 

Njerae has received great praise from key industry players for her outstanding work as a musician. She was among the Hottest breakout artists of ‘24 by Hot-list Africa.

Her chart-topping single “Aki Sioni” was recently ranked 10th in Apple Music’s Apple Music Top 100 (Kenya).

Njerae has consistently topped charts and earned rave reviews, and being named to Apple Music’s Africa Rising Class of 2025 will only accelerate her rise to greater success. Her album ‘Unintentional’ remains in the Apple Music Kenya Top 50 albums, two years after it was released.

Her fans rallied behind her, helping her scoop ‘Album of the year award’ for ‘Unintentional’ at the inaugural Digital 254 Radio Awards in 2024. 

Beyond that, she was also named among Top 100 Kenyans for influencing the youth through her music by Kenya Popular Digital Media outlet Kenyans.co.ke. 

Click HERE TO LISTEN TO THE AFRICAN RISING PLAYLIST