Over the weekend, South Africa-based DJ and record producer Uncle Waffles delivered an electrifying performance at the ASK Dome along Ngong Road, drawing a massive crowd of over 10,000 fans. The concert, which quickly turned chaotic as eager fans tried to gain entry despite the venue being sold out, is a testament to Uncle Waffles’ immense popularity in the global entertainment scene. But who exactly is Uncle Waffles, and how did she rise to fame at such a young age?
Born Lungelihle Zwane on April 4, 2000, in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), Uncle Waffles has become a force to reckon with in the world of Amapiano music. Raised by her grandmother, she grew up with a deep connection to the rich musical landscape of Southern Africa, influenced by artists like Black Coffee and DJ Kent. Her journey to stardom began with a love for dance and music, and it was during the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020 that she decided to learn to DJ, a decision that would alter her life forever.
Uncle Waffles’ breakthrough came in 2021 when a viral video of her dancing to Young Stunna’s hit “Adiwele” during a DJ set catapulted her into the global spotlight. The video, which showcased her magnetic stage presence and energetic choreography, quickly gained millions of views, making her an overnight sensation. It was not long before global superstars like Drake took notice, praising her talent on social media and boosting her visibility worldwide.
Her rise was swift, with her debut EP Red Dragon (2022) featuring the chart-topping hit “Tanzania,” which achieved 7x platinum certification in South Africa. The success of Red Dragon set the stage for her next release, Asylum (2023), which solidified her place as one of Amapiano’s leading artists. Tracks from the EP continued to dominate Amapiano charts, establishing her as a force in both the South African and international music scenes.
In April 2022, Uncle Waffles embarked on her first UK and Ireland tour, headlining shows alongside industry heavyweights like DJ Maphorisa and Focalistic. The tour, organized by Piano People, marked the first-ever all-star Amapiano tour in the region, further cementing her status as a rising star in the global music landscape. Her accomplishments reached new heights in 2023 when she made history as the first Amapiano artist to perform at the prestigious Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.
Her achievements didn’t stop there. Uncle Waffles’ music broke international barriers, with “Tanzania” being hailed as one of the top Afropop songs of 2022 by Rolling Stone. In 2023, she received two Grammy Award nominations for Best Global Music Album for Asylum and Best African Performance for the hit “Yahyuppiyah.” Her contributions to music also caught the attention of legendary artists like Beyoncé, who sampled “Tanzania” during her Renaissance World Tour—an undeniable milestone for the 24-year-old.
Uncle Waffles’ personal life is as intriguing as her career. Raised by her grandmother, she had little contact with her parents until later in her teenage years. Her complicated family dynamics have been a part of her narrative, but her determination to succeed has always been at the forefront. Despite her fame, she has kept her personal relationships private, focusing on her artistry and global reach. She has openly discussed her sexual orientation, identifying as bisexual, though her personal relationships remain largely under wraps.
Her journey is a remarkable testament to the power of authenticity and resilience. Uncle Waffles has managed to break down barriers in the global music scene, not just through her talent but through her relentless work ethic and dedication to her craft. As one of Amapiano’s most influential stars, she continues to redefine the genre’s global presence, proving that passion, talent, and determination are key ingredients to breaking into the world stage.
Today, Uncle Waffles stands as a beacon for young African artists striving to make an impact globally, and her story will undoubtedly continue to inspire and empower the next generation of musicians.
