Apple Music launches Soul September campaign

The campaign will feature 14 exclusive playlists from R&B artists such as South African singer Elaine and big international names like John Legend, Toni Braxton, Tamia, Anthony Hamilton, Ari Lennox, Alina Baraz, Snoh Aalegra,Teyana Taylor and Victoria Monet, among others. The playlists are available for streaming here and can only be accessed in Africa. Some of the songs featured on Elaine’s playlist include ‘Lovely Day’ (Bill Whithers), ‘Isn’t She Lovely’ (Stevie Wonder), ‘I'm Coming Out’ (Diana Ross) and ‘Ain’t Nobody’ (Chaka Khan).

Each playlist features the artist's favourite R&B hits of all time, alongside vital songs that have helped them forge their own career paths. The collection will also include classic albums, music videos, the best new R&B releases and the Artist Essentials playlists.

"Soul September makes me think of warmth, romance, passion, feeling nostalgic and everything in between,” Elaine said. “This playlist highlights some of the artists that I grew up listening to, and that have paved the way for young R&B and soul artists like myself.”

Toni Braxton said: "This is like my ‘Throwback Thursday’ playlist that I listen to most days. I love old-school jams, it reminds me of when I was cool, young and hot but didn’t even know I was cool, young and hot. No matter what, when you look back you will always remember those hot fun summer moments. Some of the newer songs have that same flavour. I wanted to highlight younger artists who are bringing that same heat.”

Commenting on his playlist, John Legend said: "This is a list of some of the R&B and soul songs that I love. Many of them are from decades ago. They were the songs that made me fall in love with the beautiful tradition of black music that I try to help carry on today. Some are from my favourite R&B artists of today. They're all beautiful and special to me – songs of love and joy, longing and uplift.”

Tamia said she grew up listening to all genres of music, but R&B was her favourite. “This is just a small look at some of my favourite R&B songs of all time. Whether I’m getting ready in the dressing room before a show, spending time with friends, or relaxing, these are a few of my go-tos.”

Apple Music 1 presenter and host of R&B Now Nadeska Alexis said Soul September was a much-needed celebration of R&B artists and the music that inspired them.

Anthony Hamilton said his playlist reflects many different times of his life when he was transitioning. “‘Jodeci’ reminds me of my first trip to NYC to get my record deal at Uptown/MCA in 1992 with $67 in my pocket. We would sing the entire album on our drive from Charlotte. Some of the songs on this list remind me of my childhood and other songs remind me of good and bad relationships.”