Soul & Roots: Apples Stands Tall Among Independent Artists
Photo Courtesy: Apples Kedama Hagel

Soul & Roots: Apples Stands Tall Among Independent Artists

By: Nia Bowers

Apples is entering her next era with clear direction and undeniable momentum. Known for her rich South African heritage, magnetic stage presence, and a creative journey that spans multiple industries, she has emerged as one of the most compelling independent artists working today. Her upcoming single “Magic,” set for release on July 25, 2025, marks an exciting new chapter—one that blends polished pop production with the raw emotional depth that has become a defining feature of her storytelling.

“Magic” explores the intriguing complexities of falling for someone who may not be the right choice for you. It touches on the psychological grip of attraction, the chaos it causes, and the strange beauty that comes with surrendering to it anyway. “This is my first international release,” Apples explains. “And the song itself feels like a tug-of-war between desire and destruction. I wanted to capture the headspace of knowing it’s a bad idea—but doing it anyway because, in that moment, it’s euphoric.”

The single also positions Apples as an artist with a growing presence on the global stage. She divides her time between South Africa and Los Angeles, and the duality of those cultural experiences has allowed her to create music that feels unique. While her sound is undoubtedly modern, there is a deep respect for identity, language, and ancestral influence that pulses through every beat. Her vocal delivery—smooth, honest, and brimming with nuance—offers just enough restraint to let the listener feel the weight behind each word.

Soul & Roots: Apples Stands Tall Among Independent Artists
Photo Courtesy: Apples Kedama Hagel

Before stepping into the music industry, Apples had already made her mark in other creative fields. She was crowned Top Model North Coast and earned the title of Mrs. Queen of South Africa, while also bringing home a gold medal and first runner-up placement from iPOP in Los Angeles. Her journey through modeling and pageantry taught her discipline, poise, and how to command a room—all qualities she now brings to the studio and the stage. Yet, it’s in music where Apples feels most aligned with her purpose.

That sense of self is evident in every aspect of her artistry. From conceptualizing the visual world around her songs to crafting lyrics that are unflinchingly honest, Apples is a multi-hyphenate who doesn’t wait for permission to create. She brings a cinematic sensibility to pop and Afrofusion, drawing on influences like Tyla, Rosalia, and Tems, while always staying true to herself.

Her work has already started to gain significant industry attention. Apples is carving out a distinct lane for herself—one defined by bold, genre-blending expression in a landscape that often rewards sameness. Her fans are drawn not just to her sound but to the confidence and vulnerability she models with ease.

Apples is demonstrating that it’s never too late to shift direction and start fresh. That creative rebirth is what makes her music feel so grounded. She’s not here to chase trends—she’s here to connect, to evolve, and to build something that reflects the full scope of her identity. Whether she’s writing about the sweetness of partnership or the chaos of forbidden love, there is always a truth pulsing underneath. She’s not afraid to get messy, to take risks, or to reveal the cracks in the foundation.

As “Magic” nears its release date, all signs point to an artist in full bloom. With roots in storytelling, performance, and pageantry, Apples is bringing a wealth of lived experience to a sound that feels fresh, urgent, and unmistakably hers. There’s a gravity to what she’s doing—but also lightness, humor, and a sense of artistic play that keeps listeners coming back.

This is not just a debut era—it’s a creative reckoning. And for Apples, the magic is just beginning.

Follow Apples on Instagram and stream her music on Spotify to stay in the loop as she prepares to drop her most dynamic work yet.

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