Global music streaming platform Audiomack has recently announced rising DJ and producer Uncle Waffles as its latest #UpNow artiste. The Swaziland native (based in South Africa) has been chosen to represent the platform’s emerging artists program, an initiative that aims to spotlight up-and-coming performers in a variety of musical genres, including Hip-Hop, R&B, and Amapiano, on a global scale.
The newly emerged #UpNow artiste who recently headlined the inaugural “Audiomack House” in Johannesburg, South Africa will be featured as a cover star on Audiomack’s #UpNow playlist. Additionally, her music will receive extensive promotions through various channels including specialized marketing, editorial, social promotions, playlisting, curated videos, and much more.
“Growing up, Swaziland didn’t have a creative community and we had limited opportunities for individuals to showcase their artistic abilities. Therefore, I am appreciative of the recognition and platform provided by Audiomack, as it denotes a significant difference and appreciation for my craft and abilities. I aspire to be remembered as someone who achieved the impossible in every aspect,” Waffles said.
It signals quite a journey for the international superstar, whose first upload on Audiomack came in March 2022 with her debut “Red Dragon” EP. Since then, Waffles’ popularity has exploded exponentially, accumulating over 2.8 million global streams on the platform with over 70,000 monthly listeners. Waffles’ star power was further solidified when Drake reposted her on his Instagram.
Most recently, Audiomack sponsored her US tour in late November and early December of last year and in addition, the Amapiano star earned seven nominations at the Amapiano Awards, including “Amapiano Artist of the Year,” “Best Amapiano Female Artist” and “Best Amapiano Newcomer.” Her rapid rise reached new heights when it was announced that she earned a coveted slot to perform at Coachella in April 2023.
Commenting on this, Audiomack SVP of Marketing and Brand Strategy Jason Johnson stated, “Uncle Waffles is truly deserving of this honor, in less than a year, she went from making her first Audiomack upload to performing at Coachella and it’s a testament to her talent, commitment, and ambition. She’s carving a new lane for Amapiano artists, and we’re excited to witness her grow into a superstar.”
Uncle Waffles is premiering an exclusive song with Audiomack called Khumbula for the campaign and the teaser of the song can be heard in her #UpNow promo video. Waffles’ recognition comes three months after Audiomack tapped GloRilla as its #UpNow artist in November 2022. Other past #UpNow honorees include Rod Wave, EST Gee, Blxst, Pooh Shiesty, Sheff G, Omah Lay, Ayra Starr, and Black Sherif.