Uncle Waffles, the rising star of South African Amapiano music, has quickly become one of the most influential DJs in Africa. With her electrifying performances, viral social media moments, and international recognition, she has built a lucrative career in a short period.
Her rise to fame has not only transformed her into a global sensation but also significantly increased her wealth. In this article, we explore Uncle Waffles’ net worth in 2024, her sources of income, career achievements, and personal background.
Who Is Uncle Waffles?
Uncle Waffles, born Lungelihle Zwane on April 4, 2000, in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), is a South African-based DJ, music producer, and performer. She gained widespread attention in 2021 after a video of her DJing went viral, showing her energetic performance and connection with the crowd.
Since then, she has taken the Amapiano scene by storm, performing at major festivals, collaborating with top artists, and securing endorsement deals that have significantly boosted her net worth.
How Old Is Uncle Waffles?
As of 2024, Uncle Waffles is 24 years old. Despite her young age, she has achieved what many artists take years to accomplish. Her ability to dominate the music industry at such an early stage in her career is a testament to her talent and work ethic.
Uncle Waffles’ Family and Early Life
Uncle Waffles grew up in Eswatini, where she was raised by her grandmother. Her relationship with her parents was complicated, and she has been open about her struggles growing up. However, her love for music and entertainment helped her carve a path toward success.
Before becoming a DJ, she initially pursued a career in television and media. She later transitioned to music, where she found her true passion and built a strong brand.
Uncle Waffles’ Rise to Fame
Uncle Waffles’ breakthrough moment came in 2021 when she shared a video of herself DJing to Kabza De Small and Young Stunna’s hit song “Adiwele”. Her unique energy, dance moves, and ability to engage with the crowd made the video go viral on social media, attracting millions of views.
This unexpected fame led to co-signs from major artists, including Drake, who followed her on Instagram and even played her music on his live streams. The endorsement from the global superstar further solidified her as an artist to watch.
Sources of Uncle Waffles’ Wealth
Uncle Waffles has built her net worth through various income streams, including:
1. Music and DJing Gigs
As one of the most in-demand Amapiano DJs, Uncle Waffles earns a significant amount from live performances, club appearances, and music festivals. She has performed at major events such as Coachella, Afro Nation, and international tours across Europe and the United States.
Her performance fees have increased dramatically as her popularity grows, making this one of her primary sources of income.
2. Music Streaming and Sales
Since launching her music career, Uncle Waffles has released several hit songs, with millions of streams on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. Her EPs and singles generate consistent revenue through digital streams and sales.
Some of her biggest hits include:
- “Tanzania”
- “Yahyuppiyah”
- “Sghubuhandro”
3. Brand Endorsements and Sponsorships
As a trendsetter in the entertainment industry, Uncle Waffles has secured endorsement deals with major brands. Companies in fashion, technology, and music frequently collaborate with her to promote their products.
In 2023, she landed endorsement deals with Red Bull, Bacardi, and other global brands, further increasing her income.
4. Merchandise and Fashion Ventures
Uncle Waffles has capitalized on her growing fan base by launching her own merchandise line, selling branded clothing and accessories. With her strong social media influence, she has been able to turn her image into a profitable brand.
5. Social Media Earnings
With over 1.5 million Instagram followers and a huge presence on TikTok and Twitter, Uncle Waffles also earns money through sponsored posts, advertisements, and collaborations with brands.
Uncle Waffles’ Net Worth in 2024
As of 2024, Uncle Waffles’ estimated net worth is between $1 million and $2 million. Her financial growth has been rapid, fueled by her high-paying gigs, endorsement deals, and streaming revenue.
With continued success in the music industry, her net worth is expected to increase further in the coming years.
How Uncle Waffles Spends Her Money
Despite her newfound wealth, Uncle Waffles remains relatively humble. However, she has been seen enjoying a luxurious lifestyle, including:
- Luxury Cars – She owns high-end vehicles, often spotted in sleek and stylish rides.
- Designer Fashion – As a style icon, she frequently wears top fashion brands and collaborates with designers.
- Travel and Tours – Given her busy performance schedule, she frequently travels across Africa, Europe, and North America.
However, she also gives back to her community by supporting upcoming artists and engaging in charitable initiatives.
Comparing Uncle Waffles to Other Amapiano Stars
While Uncle Waffles is one of the top-earning DJs in Africa, she is still growing her brand. Some of the biggest Amapiano artists, like Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, and Focalistic, have higher net worths due to longer careers.
However, with her fast-growing international appeal and solid business strategy, Uncle Waffles has the potential to become one of the richest female DJs in Africa.
What’s Next for Uncle Waffles?
Uncle Waffles’ career is still on an upward trajectory. In 2024, fans can expect:
- New music releases and collaborations with global artists.
- More international tours across the US, UK, and Asia.
- Expansion into business and fashion with new projects and endorsements.
Her ability to stay relevant and innovative will determine how much her net worth continues to grow.
Final Thoughts
Uncle Waffles has quickly established herself as a force in the Amapiano genre, building a strong reputation as an international DJ. With an estimated net worth of $1 million to $2 million in 2024, she is proving that hard work, talent, and the right opportunities can lead to financial success.
At just 24 years old, she has already achieved more than many in the industry and continues to push boundaries. With her growing brand, fans can expect her wealth and influence to keep rising in the years ahead.
