The Princess of Amapiano, shares her journey in an exclusive interview for Rolling Stone Africa’s February digital cover.

Born Lungelihle Zwane on March 30, 2000, in Eswatini, Uncle Waffles grew up surrounded by the infectious sounds of South African house music. Her journey into DJing began in 2020 during the lockdown, a time she dedicated to honing her craft. Everything changed in October 2021 when a viral video of her electrifying performance in Soweto catapulted her to fame. Her hit single “Tanzania” and debut EP ‘Red Dragon’ solidified her status as a multifaceted artist.

Now hailed as the “Princess of Amapiano,” Uncle Waffles has since performed on some of the biggest stages worldwide, including a groundbreaking performance at Wireless Festival in London, where she became the first and only Amapiano act to grace its stage. 

Fans can look forward to catching her headlining the Piano People stage at Afro Nation from July 9-11, 2025. In this exclusive interview conducted by Krysta Billong, The “Princess of Amapiano” discusses her rise to fame, her creative process, and her plans for the future. 

Beyond music, Uncle Waffles has expressed interest in exploring fashion and other creative pursuits, hinting at a diverse artistic future.

To delve deeper into Uncle Waffles’ fascinating world and career highlights, watch the full interview below.

 

 

 

CREDITS

EDITORIAL

Journalists : Krysta Billong (@krystabillong) Takudzwa Nyambi (@_nyambi)
Editor : Ellie Howard @1709productions
Executive Producer : DR Bellegarde-Smeralda (@mwankomofficial)

PRODUCTION CREDITS

Photographer: Elliot Hensford (@elliothensford)
Creative Director: TJ Sawyerr (@tj.saw1)
Stylist: Chantelle Thach (@chantellethach)
Lighting Tech: George Robson (@georgerobson)
MUA: Noemie Adebiyi (@noemi.adebiyi)
Hair: Estelle Hayatou (@stella.yato)
Styling Assist: Gia Knight (@giaknight) + Yaya Miura (@yayamiiu) + Paola Rivas (@luciiidd)
Edit + Retouch: Jenny Arrowsmith (@arrwsmth)
Producer: TJ Sawyerr (@tj.saw1)
Post Production: Dave Chaney @ EC One Lab (@econe_lab @dchandprintz)

Thanks to Le Salon Studio (@lesalonstudio)