Edit Content
Edit Content

How Lungelihle Zwane became Uncle Waffles

The Princess of Amapiano, Uncle Waffles graces our February Cover

Born on March 30, 2000, in Eswatini, Uncle Waffles grew up in a modest environment with a deep passion for the creative industry. She was drawn to the vibrant sounds of South African house music from an early age, which later shaped her musical journey. In 2020, during the lockdown, she dedicated herself to mastering DJing. Her breakthrough came in October 2021 when a viral video of her electrifying performance in Soweto catapulted her into the spotlight.
In this exclusive interview with Krysta Billong, the “Princess of Amapiano” shares her rise to fame, creative process, and future aspirations. From learning to DJ in lockdown to headlining major festivals like Wireless London, Uncle Waffles has shattered barriers and redefined Amapiano on the global stage. She reflects on her hit single Tanzania, the impact of her debut EP Red Dragon, and key milestones from 2020 to 2025.
As she continues to dominate the music scene, Uncle Waffles hints at expanding her artistic horizons, possibly venturing into fashion and other creative fields. Fans can also catch her headlining the Piano People stage at Afro Nation from July 9-11, 2025.
To dive deeper into her inspiring journey and career highlights, watch the full interview below.

Video credits
Journalists : Krysta Billong   Usher Takudzwa Nyambi  
Editor : Ellie Howard  
Executive Producer : DR Bellegarde-Smeralda 

Photography Credits

Photographer: Elliot Hensford 
Creative Director: TJ Sawyerr 
Stylist: Chantelle Thach 
Lighting Tech: George Robson 
MUA: Noemie Adebiyi 
Hair: Estelle Hayatou 
Styling Assist: Gia Knight  + Yaya Miura  + Paola Rivas 
Edit + Retouch: Jenny Arrowsmith 
Producer: TJ Sawyerr 
Post Production: Dave Chaney  EC One Lab  

Thanks to Le Salon Studio @lesalonstudio

TOP STORIES NEWSLETTER

A Cultural Force That Transcends Generations

By providing your information, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy. We use vendors that may also process your information to help provide our services.

In celebration of Zimbabwean Independence Day, we caught up with Nitefreak as he reflected on his humble beginnings, career-defining moments,
The debut feature film by Akinola Davies Jr will compete in the Un Certain Regard section of the festival.
DJ Maphorisa and Xduppy sit down with Rolling Stone Africa to reflect on their roots, dissect their dual release, and