SA: Apple Music shines spotlight on Bernice West in September

The announcement follows the release of West’s 14-track debut album Net Geleen. The album is available for streaming on all digital platforms. It features such songs as ‘Ons Is Familie’, ‘Sonvanger’, ‘Klop’, ‘O Kind’, ‘Beset’ and ‘Kom Binne’.

"My gratitude to this absolute honour is of incredible value," West said. "Thank you Apple Music for shining your spotlight on new artists and creating a platform for us to shape the future with you, not only in music but also beyond all borders.

"Net Geleen is my debut album and translated it means ‘only borrowed’, like our time on earth by the grace of God. May this be the start of a great adventure with you."

West rose to prominence as the runner-up of the reality TV show Maak My Famous. Featured as part of Apple Music’s Visionary Women campaign in August, West is touted to change the face of Afrikaans pop.

Her singles ‘Sonop-Blom’ and ‘Die Hart’ took the No 1 spot on Apple Music’s Afrikaans Singles Chart. Her album, which was produced by Robin Kyle, also did well on the Apple Music Afrikaans Chart.

Previous Spotlight artists include Sho Madjozi, Amanda Black, Shekhinah, Shane Eagle, Sun-El Musician, The Big Hash, Simmy, Ami Faku and Elaine.

Listen to Net Geelen on Apple Music.