As South Africa commemorates 30 years of freedom this year, Apple Music is honoring the occasion with its 30 Years of Freedom campaign. This initiative pays tribute to the resilience and excellence of South Africa’s people, highlighting the pivotal role music played in the nation’s liberation.
Amapiano sensation Musa Keys shares his perspective on the significance of this milestone: “South Africans are special because we embody the spirit of Madiba wherever we go. We are humble, kind, loving, and we are fighters. We will fight for what is right, and that is very important to keep us going.”
For Musa Keys, the celebration of South Africa’s freedom is deeply personal. In curating exclusive playlists for Apple Music, he reflects on the artists and songs that have inspired him on his journey. Among them are icons like Semi Tee, Scorpion Kings, De Mthuda, Kwesta, Black Coffee, and Ralf Gum, along with groundbreaking hits from his own repertoire.
Discussing his influences, Musa Keys emphasizes the transformative impact of artists like Semi Tee and the Scorpion Kings: “They brought amapiano to the normal household and made the genre commercial. They broke through barriers so that the genre could grow immensely.”
Furthermore, Musa acknowledges the role of other trailblazers like Kwesta, Black Coffee, and Ralf Gum in shaping his aspirations for international success. He highlights Kwesta’s collaborations with American artists, Black Coffee’s global acclaim, and the widespread recognition of Ralf Gum’s work.
Regarding his own contributions to the music landscape, Musa Keys expresses gratitude for the joy his songs have brought to listeners. He believes they have made meaningful contributions to urban and South African culture over the past few years.
As part of the 30 Years of Freedom campaign, Apple Music will feature curated playlists from various influential figures in South Africa. These playlists, assembled by luminaries such as Nomzamo Mbatha, Benny McCarthy, Connie Chiume, PJ Powers, and others, offer a retrospective of the songs that have defined the nation’s journey towards freedom.
Through initiatives like this, Apple Music continues to celebrate the rich tapestry of South African music and its profound impact on society, both past and present.
