Apple Music today announced Nigerian Afrobeats star Shoday as the latest Africa Rising cover star, spotlighting one of the continent’s most dynamic new voices at a pivotal moment in his career.
Hailing from Ogun State and raised in Lagos, Shoday has steadily emerged as one of Nigeria’s most compelling talents. Known for his distinctive melodies and street-rooted sound, he first captured attention with “Dey 4 You,” before breakout single “Caution” propelled him onto the Shazam charts and Apple Music’s Top 100 & Nigeria.
“It’s an honour being the cover star of Africa Rising, I feel blessed.” Shoday says on his selection as this month’s Africa Rising cover star. “ A big thank you to everyone supporting my music, and a big thank you to the Apple Music Team for seeing me fit to cover the prestigious Africa Rising playlist.”
Shoday steps into a defining new chapter with the release of his debut album, Hybrid, which arrived earlier this month. The project reflects the duality that has shaped his rise by blending vibrant street anthems with melodic, introspective records.
Hybrid follows a breakout run that included major streaming moments such as “Nakupenda” and “Hey Jago,” alongside January 2026’s chart-topping single “Paparazzi” featuring FOLA. The track reached No.1 on Apple Music in Lagos and secured a high position on Apple Music Nigeria’s Top Songs chart, while “Nakupenda” peaked at No. 1 on Apple Music Nigeria’s Top Songs chart and held top positions for multiple weeks. His 2024 viral single “Casablanca” featuring Ayo Maff was also listed on Apple Music’s Best Songs of 2024.
Shoday’s trajectory has extended beyond Nigeria, including a sold-out debut UK tour across London, Manchester and Birmingham in 2025. With Hybrid, he delivers a cohesive statement that positions him firmly among the next generation of African stars bridging local authenticity with global ambition. As this month’s Africa Rising cover star, Shoday will be featured across the Africa Rising playlist and in an exclusive Africa Now Radio episode with host Nandi Madida, offering listeners deeper insight into his journey and creative evolution.
Since 2020, Apple Music’s artist development programme Africa Rising has showcased the best and brightest emerging artists from around the continent, exposing them to global audiences and allowing their music to reach fresh ears. With the eyes of the world firmly fixed on Africa’s vibrant music scene, Africa Rising has provided editorial support to emerging African artists across the Apple Music ecosystem, including Tyla, Omah Lay, Rema, Tems, Ayra Starr, Amarae and many more.
