23-year-old South African singer-songwriter Will Linley has returned with a brand-new single, “Cinematic,” out today via Island Records.
The rising star first broke out in 2024 with his U.S. headlining Magic Tour and also made waves performing at the iconic Lollapalooza festival.
He’s best known for his Magic EP—a standout collection of “sad-pop” tracks blending heartfelt, emotional lyrics with upbeat, danceable production. The Magic EP includes fan favourites like “Maybe,” “Gracie,” “Tough (The Girls Song),” and his viral hit “Last Call.”
Watch the video for “Cinematic” below:
You can stream “Cinematic” HERE.
More info about Will Linley
Hailing from Cape Town, Will Linley grew up as the youngest in a musically inclined family. He learned violin and viola early on before teaching himself to play both piano and guitar.
His songwriting journey began in high school, influenced by artists such as Dean Lewis, Lewis Capaldi, and Ed Sheeran.
Will first found popularity through TikTok, eventually topping the airplay charts in South Africa with the Gold-certified hit “miss me (when you’re gone).”
His breakout success paved the way for international attention and the release of his debut EP kill all my feelings.
His previous single “Last Call” became a global success with over 95 million streams and led to him being named a Vevo DSCVR artist.
Will Linley’s Career Highlights
Will Linley has supported acts such as OneRepublic and Matthew Mole, and in 2023, he took to the UK stage as part of P!NK’s Summer Carnival at BST Hyde Park—sharing the bill with the likes of Gwen Stefani and Sam Ryder.
He also performed at the Barn on the Farm Festival in Gloucester and headlined his first London show at The Courtyard Theatre.
In the same year, Will performed two sold-out headline shows in the U.S., thrilling fans in both New York City and Los Angeles.
Stay tuned for more from Will Linley as he continues to build a global audience with his emotionally resonant and irresistibly catchy pop sound.
Watch this space for updates in the Music Videos category on SA Music Zone.
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