BY DELISA THWALA
MBABANE– Audiomack has announced eSwatini-born DJ and producer Uncle Waffles as its latest ‘#UpNow’ artist.
Launched in April 2020, ‘#UpNow’ aims to spotlight and promote the next generation of global music superstars.
Audiomack is an on-demand music streaming and audio discovery platform that allows artists and creators to upload limitless music and podcasts for listeners through its mobile apps and website. I
Uncle Waffles will represent the platform’s emerging artists programme in a variety of musical genres, including hip hop, RnB and Amapiano, on a global scale.
When speaking on this milestone, Uncle Waffles, born Lungelihle Zwane, said she was excited about the new journey. She mentioned that Audiomack had played a huge role in helping her select her playlist for gigs.
“Growing up, Eswatini did not 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,” she said.
In addition, Uncle Waffles, who recently headlined the inaugural Audiomack House in Johannesburg, South Africa will be featured as a cover star on Audiomack’s ‘#UpNow’ playlist.
Her music will receive extensive promotion through various channels including specialised marketing, editorial, social media campaigns, play listing, curated videos, and much more.
The announcement marks the beginning of a long journey for Uncle Waffles, who released her debut EP on Audiomack in March 2022. In the past year, she accumulated more than 2.8 million global streams on the platform, with more than 70 000 monthly listeners.
Most recently, Audiomack sponsored Uncle Waffle’s United States (US) tour in November and early December 2022.
The star received seven nods at this year’s 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.
Meanwhile, Uncle Waffles is premiering an exclusive song with Audiomack called ‘Khumbula’ for the campaign and the teaser can be heard in the promo of her ‘#upnow’ promo video. Uncle Waffles’ recognition comes three months after Audiomack tapped US rapper GloRilla as its ‘#UpNow’ artist in November 2022.
