One thing about Uncle Waffles and Kelvin Momo? They know how to secure the bag and keep South Africa’s flag flying high on the global stage. The amapiano powerhouses have added another major international moment to their growing list of achievements after rubbing shoulders with Drake at the invite-only NOCTA Manor event in New York City, cementing their place among some of the world’s biggest names in music, fashion and culture.

What is NOCTA Manor?

NOCTA Manor is an immersive experience from NOCTA, the lifestyle brand Drake created with Nike. The event blends fashion, music and culture, bringing together athletes, artists and creatives from around the world. Held in New York, it doubles as a launch for the latest NOCTA collection and as a space for Drake to bring his community together.

The two South African stars were spotted among a room full of big names, another sign that amapiano and SA culture are holding their own on the global stage.

SA stars at Drake’s party

Videos and pictures that made the rounds on social media showed Lungelihle Zwane, popular known as Uncle Waffles, and Kelvin Momo born as Thato Kelvin Ledwaba, enjoying the night.

They were seen mingling with Drake and other guests from music, fashion and entertainment. For both artists, it’s another big moment in a run that’s already taken them far beyond local dance floors.

 

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Fans didn’t waste time reacting, many called it a proud moment and praised the duo for putting South Africa on display at one of the world’s biggest cultural gatherings.

Amapiano’s global moment keeps growing

Uncle Waffles has quickly become one of SA’s biggest music exports. Her high-energy sets and viral performances have taken her to festivals across Europe, North America and Africa, and she’s picked up a loyal international following along the way.

Kelvin Momo, widely called the ‘King of Private School Amapiano,’ has also been pushing the sound overseas. His soulful, piano-driven productions have pulled in millions of streams, and his shows abroad keep introducing new crowds to the genre.

Their presence at NOCTA Manor is just the latest proof that amapiano isn’t slowing down. South African artists are now regulars in global music and fashion conversations.

Fans show love online

Many social media users said seeing Uncle Waffles and Kelvin Momo at the event showed how far amapiano has come in just a few years. Others called it a win for the whole local industry.

As both artists keep breaking new ground internationally, their night at NOCTA Manor is another reminder: South African talent isn’t just visiting the global stage anymore. It’s staying.

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