Apple Music has officially named Highlife fusion singer-songwriter Xlimkid (Henry Boakye) as its December Up Next artist in Ghana. This recognition is part of Apple Music’s global artist initiative, dedicated to identifying, showcasing, and elevating emerging talent worldwide.
The local Ghanaian version of the Up Next program, launched in early 2021, continues to spotlight the country’s brightest rising stars. Xlimkid, thrilled by the honor, shared his excitement: “It’s been an amazing and challenging journey as my story continues to unfold. I feel so honored and excited to be chosen as the Up Next artist for Apple Music in December. A big thank you to Apple Music and a big thank you to all my fans!”
It’s been an amazing and challenging journey as my story continues to unfold. I feel so honored and excited to be chosen as the Up Next artist for Apple Music in December. A big thank you to Apple Music and a big thank you to all my fans!
Xlimkid
Born and raised in Accra, Xlimkid discovered his passion for music in his early teens, describing the experience as “music calling me.” Today, he blends the soulful essence of Ghanaian Highlife with Reggae and Hip-Hop, crafting a sound that resonates with listeners of all ages globally.
Xlimkid’s career trajectory skyrocketed with the release of his collaborative EP Pain in Glory (2023), showcasing his vocal and storytelling prowess. His follow-up singles, including the street anthem “Valley of Trappers” featuring Sarkodie, further cemented his reputation as a standout artist. His latest track, “Betrayed” (2024), delivers raw emotion and one of his most powerful vocal performances yet, underlining his evolving artistry.
As the December Up Next artist in Ghana, Xlimkid will feature prominently across Apple Music’s curated Up Next playlist. This playlist is a genre-agnostic showcase of dynamic, emerging talent selected by Apple Music editors worldwide.
Xlimkid joins a prestigious roster of global Up Next alumni, including Grammy-nominated artists like 6lack, Daniel Caesar, H.E.R., and African icons such as Burna Boy, Tems, Mr Eazi, and Rema.
About Apple Music’s Up Next Program
The Up Next program is Apple Music’s monthly initiative aimed at discovering and supporting rising talent. Each month, Apple Music’s editorial team selects an artist and leverages the platform’s global reach to promote them to music fans worldwide.
The Up Next playlist and localized campaigns in regions such as Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa ensure that talented artists like Xlimkid receive the recognition they deserve, spotlighting their potential to connect with a broader audience.
With this milestone, Xlimkid solidifies his place as a significant voice in contemporary African music, and fans can look forward to even more groundbreaking releases from the talented artist.
