TikTok Video Sparks Candid Conversation
Swazi-born DJ and music sensation Uncle Waffles has once again silenced online gossip, addressing speculation about her weight and past rumours about her sexuality in a heartfelt TikTok video. Known for her energetic performances and record-breaking career milestones, Waffles spoke candidly about the pressures of fame and the intrusive scrutiny she has faced since her early 20s.
“The Olympics to tear down my ego are never going to work because I’m not living to please you,” Waffles said. “My appearance is not to please you. It’s to be comfortable with myself. All the things I’m doing are for me.”
@uncle.waffles #stitch with @Penelope_ubisi ♬ original sound – Uncle Waffles
The Rumours: From Trans Speculation to Weight Criticism
Waffles recalled the origins of the trans rumours, which began from a misinformed Facebook post linking her to fellow DJ Uncle Vinny. The post suggested she transitioned for attention, prompting her to speak out in defense of the queer community around her.
“I did not want hate to fester for the queer people around me. That’s why I addressed it the first time,” she explained. “The second time, people expected a statement about not having a penis. I don’t have a penis. If you take what people say on Facebook as the bible, I don’t want to reason with you.”
She highlighted the absurdity of the speculation, reflecting on people demanding she prove her womanhood:
“During that era, people were saying I should show them my vagina to prove that I’m a woman. Who are you to expect me to explain myself, especially about my anatomy?”
On Weight and the Pressure of Fame
Waffles also confronted public commentary about her changing physique. She described the unrealistic expectations placed on women in entertainment, particularly in the context of constant travel and high-energy performances:
“We travel every three days, continent to continent. People assume you can still get eight hours of sleep, drink all your water, eat perfectly, and look perfect for them. It’s a standard applied mostly to women, and it’s a strange expectation.”
She emphasized that her choices regarding her body are personal and not up for public judgment:
“There are many reasons people gain or lose weight. Why do you feel the need to talk about it? What I do is for me, for my comfort, and that is it.”
The Bigger Picture: Body-Shaming in the Music Industry
Uncle Waffles reflected on the wider issue of body-shaming female artists, particularly in Africa:
“I see people try to bring down female artists’ achievements simply because of how their bodies look. African women are breaking barriers, being iconic, pushing through and becoming multi-millionaires. Yet some people want to reduce that to their weight because it doesn’t fit their idea. It’s tiring.”
She stressed the importance of personal boundaries and self-care:
“I’m finding better patterns for myself, and those include sacrifices. So please shut the f*** up.”
Music, Milestones, and Moving Forward
Despite the online distractions, Uncle Waffles remains focused on her craft. She recently released her EP, Mix It Up Vol. 4, which blends sounds from Nigeria, London, and South Africa. The project features collaborations with Nigerian singer Fave, UK rapper Ghetts, North London’s rising star Chy Cartier, and South African producers Beats Slide, Royal MusiQ, TK Creedlion, Makhanj, and Sbuda Maleather.
Earlier this year, she made history as the first female artist on the cover of Rolling Stone Africa, cementing her status as one of the continent’s most influential music figures.
“What I do with my body is for me. If I hit the gym, that’s my choice. It doesn’t mean anyone has the right to say whatever they want,” she concluded, turning her focus firmly back to her music and future projects.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X {@MDNnewss}
