Apple Music has announced rising South African singer-songwriter Xowié as the latest artist to be featured in its Up Next artist development program in South Africa.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of Apple Music’s Up Next,” she shares with Apple Music. “This is a huge moment for me, and I can’t wait to share my new music with the world.” Hailing from KwaZulu-Natal, Xowié’s music is shaped by an eclectic mix of genres, from R&B to pop to reggae. Inspired by iconic voices like Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and Lauryn Hill, as well as contemporary stars SZA, Victoria Monét and Raye, her work explores themes of self-confidence, body positivity and love.
Rooted in the values instilled by her deeply religious grandmother, Xowié aims to empower Black women with her music, and to encourage them to dream beyond their circumstances, especially women from townships. Emerging on the scene with her debut single “Rainy Days”, Xowié is now ready to take her place on the global stage, bringing her message of empowerment and genre-defying sound to audiences worldwide.
With a signature blend of R&B and soul, her latest offering “Nobody’s Fool” is a bold and unapologetic single about reclaiming power after a disappointing romantic experience. With a mix of vulnerability and sharp wit, she calls out the shortcomings of her partner, playfully highlighting their inadequacies in intimate moments.
The track is a deeply relatable anthem for anyone who has ever felt undervalued in a relationship, blending raw emotions with a message of resilience and self-respect.
“This song is about taking back my power and refusing to settle for less than I deserve,” Xowié tells Apple Music. “It’s a reminder that we all have the strength to walk away from situations that don’t serve us, even if it hurts.” The track is taken from her upcoming EP ALLO (A Little Long Overdue), set for release in April 2025 via Exodus Records.
As the latest Up Next act to be spotlighted in South Africa, Xowié will be featured on Apple Music’s Up Next playlist. The curated playlist features a dynamic class of new and emerging artists, thoughtfully hand-picked by Apple Music editors from around the world. The playlist is genre agnostic and represents a line-up of artists our global editors are passionate about and eager to expose to a larger audience.
