Though he started pursuing music at age 11, the SA’s Got Talent opportunity was the official catalyst in taking his talent from passion to profession. Johhny Apple, real name Juan Appelgrein had both the looks and talent to win over his audience.

With Twitter abuzz with affection for the young star, it appears Appelgrein’s career is taking off. Not quite ready to place all his eggs in one basket, he says: “It’s important to me that I finish school, because you never know what’s going to happen in this life. I want something to fall back on. Also, I want to be a good example to those who look up to me – and this is me doing the right thing.”

Though still new to the industry, Appelgrein’s enthusiasm is promising and his vocal range even more so. His eponymous debut album offers the same soulful sound that won him SA’s Got Talent.

His first single, Monday Night, was co-written with Flash Republic’s Tamara Dey and South African songwriter André Scheepers, and released through Sony Music Africa.

Off the back of that, Appelgrein released his new ready-for-summer single Warrior, along with the debut Johnny Apple album.

Appelgrein, When asked about the new single, says: “If it gives just one person the courage to be a warrior and stand up for what they believe in, I will have done what I set out to achieve.”