February 2025 – Rolling Stone Africa proudly announces Amapiano DJ and producer Uncle Waffles (real name Lungelihle Zwane) as their latest cover star. The Swazi-born sensation has captivated global audiences with her electrifying performances, unique style, and undeniable influence in the Amapiano music movement.
Uncle Waffles’ journey is one of resilience and self-determination. During South Africa’s strict COVID-19 lockdowns, she taught herself how to DJ, spending up to eight hours a day perfecting her craft. However, it was a viral video of her dancing during a DJ set—spinning Young Stunna’s hit “Adiwele”—that propelled her into stardom. The clip caught the attention of Drake, who publicly co-signed her talent, becoming one of her biggest supporters.
“For our February cover, we wanted a talent that represents an African success story—one that resonates with the youth. Uncle Waffles was the perfect choice, blending music, style, and high-energy performance. As the first female artist to grace the cover of Rolling Stone Africa, she is not only making history for herself but for the entire Amapiano and Afro House community in South Africa,” said D.R. Bellegarde Smeralda, CEO of Rolling Stone Africa.
The cover feature delves into her remarkable rise, highlighting how Lungelihle Zwane transformed into the global phenomenon known as Uncle Waffles.
Amapiano’s Reigning Star
Uncle Waffles has continuously pushed boundaries in the Amapiano scene. Her debut EP Red Dragon (2022) introduced fans to her distinctive sound, with the lead single “Tanzania” reaching quadruple-platinum status in South Africa. She later expanded her musical scope with her debut album Asylum (2023), blending hip-hop influences into her signature Amapiano beats.
Her growing influence has led to international tours, major festival performances, and collaborations with top-tier artists, solidifying her position as one of Africa’s most sought-after DJs and producers.
Rolling Stone Africa: Amplifying African Stories
Launched in August 2024 with multiple offices across Africa, Rolling Stone Africa is dedicated to celebrating African music, culture, and stories. The magazine is led by the Mwankom Group via a joint venture with Penske Media Corporation (PMC), publisher of the Rolling Stone brand.
Rolling Stone Africa offers in-depth features, exclusive interviews, and digital-first content, ensuring a global audience stays connected with Africa’s evolving cultural landscape. The magazine’s mission is to:
✅ Celebrate and promote African culture, music, and voices.
✅ Transcend borders and captivate international audiences.
✅ Inspire and uplift the continent’s creative youth.
A portion of Rolling Stone Africa’s proceeds goes toward charities supporting African history preservation and children’s welfare, reinforcing its commitment to making a tangible impact beyond entertainment.