Apple Music announces DJ Stokie as the latest Isgubhu Cover Star

Apple Music today announces Johannesburg-based Amapiano DJ and producer DJ Stokie (real name Setoki Mbatha) as the next Isgubhu cover star.

“I never thought that music could put me this far, and I am honoured to have been selected for Isgubhu,” he tells Apple Music. “A big thank you to everyone at Apple Music for all the belief and support. My Isgubhu playlist is the soundtrack to my life and is a selection of songs perfect for any moment.”

Born and raised in Mzimhlophe, DJ Stokie’s love affair with music began in the early ’90s, as he immersed himself within the rich soundscape of Soweto, drawing inspiration from Mpopo, Fetsi and Ma-Leven, as he embarked on a journey of sonic exploration of honing his craft and shaping his unique style.

It was his energetic performances as part of YFM’s Mad Half Hour competition in 2006 that captivated Joburg’s youth and as a result, positioned him as a rising star on the electronic dance scene. As Amapiano began to grow in popularity and stature DJ Stokie emerged as a driving force, pushing the genre’s boundaries beyond the borders of its East Rand origins and creating a second home for it in the heart of Soweto.

Now, having cemented his status as the self-proclaimed “Superman” of Amapiano, DJ Stokie stands as a pioneering force in Amapiano, crafting a sonic landscape that speaks to the soul of the streets, blending infectious rhythms with soulful melodies that resonates with a global audience.

His new album Immortal (2024), available to stream on Apple Music, is a continuation of his forward-thinking sound and a collection of ten tracks that aims to redefine the Amapiano landscape once again.

To celebrate his feature, DJ Stokie has also created an exclusive Isgubhu playlist that features his favourite high rotation Amapiano tracks to fit almost any occasion.

Launched in early 2021, Isgubhu is the definitive home of African Dance and Electronic music on Apple Music and spotlights and elevates the work of African Electronic DJs, producers and creatives. Isgubhu, a Zulu word meaning beat and used to refer to a banging song, pays homage to an evergreen set of genres and the African artists who have played a pivotal role in shaping the Dance and Electronic scene across the world.

Isgubhu also houses a collection of playlists including Spotlight On–a focus on boutique labels like Soul Candi, House Afrika, Stay True Sounds and Uganda’s Hakuna Kulala & Nyege Nyege Tapes and Isgubhu Voices–a focus on the best Dance and Electronic tracks that feature vocals.

Check out Isgubhu only on Apple Music http://apple.co/Isgubhu