Apple Music today announced the latest featured artist in its Africa Rising artist development program is South African up-and-coming rapper, Usimamane (real name Omuhle Simamane).
“As the Apple Music Africa Rising artist for November, I feel incredibly honoured,” he tells Apple Music. “This recognition not only validates my journey as an artist but also gives me the opportunity to share my music and the stories of my culture with a wider audience. It motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds.”
Born and raised in the bustling township of Umlazi in Durban, Usimamane drew inspiration from culturally relevant rappers like Drake and 50 Cent, to the pioneering sound of iconic South African singer Brenda Fassie and kwaito group Boom Shaka, to help nurture his burgeoning passion for performance and now, he has emerged as the leader of a new school of South African rappers.
With a unique fusion of Rap, Trap, and R&B all underpinning his dynamic flow, Usimamane is intent on his music conveying hope, joy, and inspiration, while inspiring listeners from all corners of the globe. Strongly influenced by Young Thug, Meek Mill, Gunna, and Nasty C, Usimamane’s single “Check” (2024) catapulted him into the spotlight, ultimately going 3x platinum.
On his debut album 20th: Days Before Maud (2024), available to stream on Apple Music, the rapper salutes the hustle and embraces hope alongside an all-star supporting cast of features that includes K.O, Sjava, Tellaman, YoungstaCPT, and more. The album also achieved multiple impressive feats, including reaching #1 on Apple Music’s Top Album and Hip-Hop Album Charts in the first week of its release.
