In just a few short years, international DJ sensation Uncle Waffles has contributed immensely in taking Amapiano music to the world. Her rise to stardom has been nothing short of extraordinary, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique blend of talent, determination, and a touch of luck. As we reflect on her incredible journey, it’s evident that 2023 has been a defining year for this Swazi-born, South African-based superstar.
Uncle Waffles kicked off 2023 with a bang, making headlines with a groundbreaking announcement – her appearance at the Coachella Festival. Notably, she became the first South African female DJ to grace the Coachella stage, a historic moment that left us all in awe. Her presence at the world-renowned festival was a testament to her global appeal and undeniable talent.
But that was just the beginning. The DJ extraordinaire also had the opportunity to perform at the after-party for the iconic Met Gala, further cementing her status as a rising star on the international music scene.
However, it was her musical prowess that truly set the year on fire. Uncle Waffles dropped the sensational Amapiano hit “Yahyuppiyah,” a track that quickly became a sensation and was featured in illustrious publications like Billboard Magazine and the New York Times. Even the Coachella website couldn’t resist acknowledging her talent.
The excitement didn’t stop there. Uncle Waffles embarked on a whirlwind EURO & USA tour that boasted several sold-out dates. Among the tour highlights was a special event scheduled for the 22nd of September, a date of great significance. On this day, Uncle Waffles hosted her very first headline show abroad, titled “We Love Waffles.” Her viral announcement video on social media also teased a hot new track, “Peacock Revisit,” featuring Ice Beats Slide and Sbuda Maleather that eventually dropped as a track in the second part of her Ep titled Solace.
The grand event took place at the Great Hall at Avant Gardner in New York, attracting over 3000 enthusiastic attendees. With the show completely sold out, the night featured not only Uncle Waffles but also other Amapiano sensations from South Africa, including Tyla and 2wo Bunnies, Moma, and AQ. It was an unforgettable night, where Uncle Waffles showcased the beauty of Amapiano in a stunning performance that featured mesmerizing dancers and captivating visuals.
Uncle Waffles’ journey in 2023 has been marked by inspiring moments, including an unexpected collaborative adventure with a fast food franchise. Earlier in the year, fans were treated to the “Waffles burger,” which debuted at Kentucky Town with KFC. Due to its immense popularity and demand, the burger made its way into KFC locations nationwide in a campaign titled “The Streets Hack.” This groundbreaking collaboration saw the exclusive burger available in different provinces throughout South Africa, with fans in major cities going out to get their hands on this innovative fusion of flavors. It was a testament to Uncle Waffles’ ability to transcend music and make her mark in unexpected and creative ways.
As we continue to witness the remarkable journey of Uncle Waffles, we can’t help but be inspired by her rise to global stardom. Her dedication, talent, and unapologetic creativity have made her a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere. We eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this extraordinary talent and look forward to being a part of her remarkable story as she continues to conquer the music world, one electrifying beat at a time.