BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE – Eswatini-born international DJ and record producer Lungelihle Zwane, better known as Uncle Waffles, is set to headline the highly anticipated I Am Dark & Lovely Festival on November 8, 2025, at 1 Fox Street, Johannesburg.
This inaugural music and culture event, hosted by Dark and Lovely Africa, will feature a stellar lineup of popular African artists, solidifying Uncle Waffles’ status as a leading figure in the amapiano movement.
Recognized globally as the “Princess of Amapiano,” Uncle Waffles has played a pivotal role in bringing the South African genre to the international stage. Her groundbreaking performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in 2023 made history, as she became the first Amapiano DJ to grace the main stage. This festival appearance marks another significant milestone in her impressive career.
Recently, Uncle Waffles lit up New York City during her electrifying performance at The Rooftop at Pier 17 on mSeptember 14, 2025. The event was an unforgettable night for fans of the amapiano genre, showcasing her unique flair and vibrant energy.
The I Am Dark & Lovely Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of African music and culture, running from 4:00 PM to 12:30 AM. With an array of talent including Nasty C, Young Stunna, Mörda, DJ Lag, Cassper Nyovest, and Lelowhatsgood, it is set to be an electrifying showcase of the continent’s best.
Uncle Waffles has also signed a partnership deal with adidas South Africa, further establishing her influence in both the music and fashion industries. This collaboration highlights her meteoric rise within the Amapiano genre and showcases her dynamic persona.
Headlining this festival represents a monumental milestone in Uncle Waffles’ career, solidifying her position as a leading figure in the global amapiano movement. This opportunity not only amplifies her visibility on an international stage but also underscores her journey from an emerging artist to a celebrated cultural ambassador. By sharing the spotlight with other renowned African musicians, she reinforces her influence and artistic credibility while also showcasing the vibrant music and culture of her homeland, Eswatini. This festival serves as a launching pad for further international recognition, allowing her to connect with a broader audience and inspire future generations of artists within the African music scene.
Fans can expect a high-energy performance filled with her hit tracks and infectious beats, as Uncle Waffles continues to inspire audiences around the world. With over 6.2 million followers across social media, her dedicated fanbase is eagerly anticipating what promises to be a remarkable performance.
As she prepares to take the stage at the I Am Dark & Lovely Festival, Uncle Waffles is set to continue breaking barriers and elevating the Amapiano genre on the global stage. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic live!
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Courtesy Pic)
