Cape Town singer-songwriter Internet Athi has been announced as the latest South African artist to join Apple Music’s Up Next programme, the platform’s global initiative spotlighting emerging talent. The recognition arrives at a pivotal moment for the artist, whose blend of jazz, neo-soul, folk, and R&B has steadily earned him a reputation as one of the country’s most compelling new voices.
“Music has always been my way of holding people close, even from a distance,” Internet Athi said. “To be recognised as Apple Music’s Up Next South Africa artist feels bigger than me. It feels like a reminder that honest stories, sung from home, can still travel far.” The announcement follows the release of his debut album Polymorphism in April, a project exploring the many forms of love through romance, friendship, family, grief, and community. The album has further cemented the momentum generated by breakout singles “Wena”, “Nguwe”, and “Undithembisile”, which have collectively surpassed one million plays on Apple Music.
The Up Next nod adds to what has already been a landmark year for the artist. Following a string of sold-out shows, Internet Athi recently secured a place on the 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz lineup and has embarked on an independently organised national tour. Beyond music, the artist born Athenkosi Cetyana is also an accomplished writer whose work has appeared at the Franschhoek Literary Festival and in Cover2Cover publications.
As part of the programme, Internet Athi will be featured across Apple Music’s Up Next playlist, joining a global alumni network that includes artists such as Billie Eilish, Burna Boy, Tems, Victoria Monét, and Rema.
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