Four South African celebrities – Tyla, Thuso Mbedu, Black Coffee, and Uncle Waffles – in the spotlight on the international stage, representing a diverse range of talent and achievements. Image: Instagram via @tyla, @unclewaffles, @thuso.mbedu, and @realblackcoffee
South African stars: The hottest talent from Mzansi to the world
The global rise of South African stars like Tyla, Thuso Mbedu, Black Coffee, and Uncle Waffles brings Mzansi talent to the world.
Four South African celebrities – Tyla, Thuso Mbedu, Black Coffee, and Uncle Waffles – in the spotlight on the international stage, representing a diverse range of talent and achievements. Image: Instagram via @tyla, @unclewaffles, @thuso.mbedu, and @realblackcoffee
South Africa has become a breeding ground for exceptional talent, with several individuals making their mark on the international stage. Let’s explore the journeys and achievements of four outstanding South African stars: Tyla, Thuso Mbedu, Black Coffee, and Uncle Waffles, who have earned recognition and pride for their homeland.
ALSO READ: From Mzansi to the world: Four SA stars who made it big
SOUTH AFRICAN STARS: TYLA
Tyla Laura Seethal, known professionally as Tyla, is a gifted singer, songwriter, and dancer hailing from Johannesburg, South Africa. She captured the hearts of her fellow South Africans with her debut single, ‘Getting Late,’ featuring Kooldrink. The song’s massive domestic success led to Tyla signing with Epic Records in 2021.
However, it was her 2023 single, ‘Water,’ that truly catapulted her to international stardom. Thanks to a viral dance challenge on TikTok, the song gained immense popularity worldwide.
Tyla’s ability to infuse Afrobeat influences into her music while maintaining global appeal has endeared her to a diverse audience. Her nomination for a South African Music Award only solidifies her status as a rising star.
ALSO READ: Rugby World Cup: Three celebrities backing the Springboks
THUSO MBEDU
Thuso Mbedu has not only become a household name in South Africa but also in Hollywood. This talented actress and South African star first garnered attention for her exceptional acting skills in the South African teen drama series ‘Is’Thunzi.’ Her outstanding performances earned her nominations for International Emmy Awards in 2017 and 2018.
Her breakthrough came with her role in the Amazon Video series ‘The Underground Railroad’ in 2021. This portrayal showcased her incredible talent to a global audience.
Additionally, she made her feature film debut in ‘The Woman King.’ Thuso’s accomplishments have cemented her status as a Hollywood star and a South African icon.
ALSO READ: Refilwe Modiselle: From the townships to international runways
BLACK COFFEE
Nkosinathi Innocent Maphumulo, professionally known as Black Coffee, is a renowned South African DJ, record producer, and songwriter. This South African star’s journey in the music industry began in 1994, and he rose to prominence after participating in the 2004 Red Bull Music Academy.
Black Coffee’s unique fusion of R&B and jazz elements set him apart. He’s released numerous studio albums, won Grammy awards, and earned several accolades, including the South African Music Awards, DJ Awards, and Metro FM Awards.
This South African star’s inspirational story, including a life-altering accident in 1990, serves as a testament to his resilience and dedication to his craft.
ALSO READ: Rugby World Cup 2023: 3 Mzansi celebrities who will be backing Springboks
UNCLE WAFFLES
Lungelihle Zwane, popularly known as Uncle Waffles, is a DJ and record producer celebrated for her contributions to the amapiano genre. Born in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), she later moved to South Africa for university. Her journey to stardom began during the COVID-19 lockdowns when she learned how to DJ.
Uncle Waffles’ rapid rise to fame was punctuated by a viral video of her dancing to ‘Adiwele’ by Young Stunna during a nightclub set. Her global recognition escalated when Canadian rapper Drake started following her on Instagram.
This South African star ventured into music production and released her debut single, ‘Tanzania,’ in 2022, which became a massive hit.
Her recent achievements include performing at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, launching an exclusive burger with KFC South Africa, and releasing successful EPs like ‘Asylum’ and ‘Solace.’ Uncle Waffles is indeed the ‘princess of amapiano.’
ALSO READ: Rugby World Cup 2023: Mzansi’s most stylish Springboks players
MZANSI STARS
Tyla, Thuso Mbedu, Black Coffee, and Uncle Waffles are shining examples of South African talent reaching new heights globally. Their unique skills and dedication have not only brought them fame but have also made South Africa proud.
These individuals showcase the rich diversity of talent within the country and prove that South Africa is a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.
