SA: Uncle Waffles named Apple Music’s latest Isgubhu cover star

The announcement follows the release of her seven-track debut album ASYLUM in March. Featuring Shakes, Les, Ghost, Manana, Lusanda and Tony Duardo, the project is a mix of amapiano and hip hop sounds.

To celebrate this recognition, Uncle Waffles has created an exclusive Isgubhu playlist that features some of the best dance music from South Africa’s leading artists.

“Amapiano continues to diversify, proving that it’s the genre that can cater to all tastes and accommodate all voices,” Uncle Waffles told Apple Music. “This playlist is an example of the past and present excellence within the genre, and how it continues to grow. These are some of my favourite songs that give a great glimpse into the dance culture.”

Born Lungelihle Zwane, Uncle Waffles learned how to DJ during South Africa’s strict COVID-19 lockdowns, putting in eight-hour sessions at time to hone her skills. The video of her dancing to Young Stunna’s ‘Adiwele’ went viral, earning her a shout-out from Drake, who is now one of her biggest fans.

The artist is set to perform at Coachella music and arts festival in California in April next year.

Launched in early 2021, Isgubhu is the definitive home of African dance and electronic music, showcasing and elevating the work of African electronic DJs, producers and artists. “Isgubhu” is a Zulu word meaning beat in English, and refers to a banging song that honours an evergreen set of genres and the African artists who have had a key role in shaping dance and electronic music.

Apple Music said: “Each month, we spotlight Africa’s most distinctive and prolific incubators of sound. This month we also highlight Zakes Bantwini’s Mayonie Productions, featuring DJ mixes from Argento Dust, Kususa, Drega and BlaQRhythm, and other content from the respected dance label.”