Apple Music proudly introduces Kenyan R&B-soul sensation Maya Amolo as the latest artist featured in its esteemed Up Next development programme in East Africa, spotlighting her exceptional talent and musical journey.

Born in Nairobi, Maya Amolo’s musical journey began within the embrace of an incredibly musical family, where singing became second nature. During high school, inspired by the ‘SoundCloud rapper’ trend, Maya ventured into recording her own music in her bedroom, laying the foundation for her unique sound.

Maya’s debut album, “Leave Me At The Pregame” (2020), delves into the intricate spectrum of love through the lens of alternative R&B, seamlessly blending Afropop and Afro-R&B. Her sophomore release, “Asali” (2022), meaning honey in Swahili, represents a new era in her artistry, embracing the lighter facets of life and love.

The deluxe version of “Asali,” aptly titled “Asali (Sweeter),” released in October, features nine new tracks that explore the stickier phases of love, accentuating the honey-textured tone of Maya’s voice and showcasing her multifaceted artistry.

Also, read; Tanzanian Afropop Sensation Abigail Chams Takes Center Stage as Spotify EQUAL Africa Ambassador

Expressing her excitement about being Up Next with Apple Music, Maya said, “The scene is buzzing here in Nairobi, so I’m always grateful when I have platforms that can amplify all the incredible work we’ve been doing here. A lot of my favorite artists were Up Next, so being grouped in with them is another win for me. Grateful to see bigger platforms giving space to our voices.”

Established in August 2017, the Up Next initiative aims to spotlight the next wave of creative talent globally. Maya Amolo follows in the footsteps of notable African artists like Burna Boy and Tems, showcasing her talent on a global scale.

As the featured Up Next artist in East Africa, Maya Amolo will grace Apple Music’s Up Next playlist, offering a curated selection of emerging artists hand-picked by Apple Music editors worldwide. The playlist spans genres, representing a diverse lineup of artists eagerly exposed to a larger audience.

Maya Amolo’s inclusion in the Up Next roster places her among a prestigious list of past talents, including Grammy-nominated artists like Billie Eilish, Burna Boy, Megan Thee Stallion, and Tems. As she continues to captivate audiences, Maya Amolo stands as a testament to the vibrant musical landscape emerging from East Africa.