Uncle Waffles Ignites Africa's Music Scene: Mix It Up Vol.4

Mix It Up Vol.4 has been released, showcasing the significance of collaboration, cultural interaction, and the prominent role of Africa in the global music scene. Executive produced by the Amapiano sensation Uncle Waffles, this project features an impressive array of artists and producers, including Nigerian singer-songwriter Fave, the UK rap icon Ghetts, rising artist from North London Chy Cartier, and skilled South African producers such as Ice Beats Slide, Royal MusiQ, TK Creedlion, Makhanj, and Sbuda Maleather.

Stream Mix It Up Vol.4 HERE

This three-track release presents a blend of narratives, musical styles, and authentic experiences. In “Gen Z Love”, Fave integrates the rhythms of Amapiano with elements of pop, Caribbean, and hip-hop, infusing a sense of vulnerability into her exploration of contemporary romance. Her voice harmonizes beautifully with the soulful sounds crafted by Ice Beats Slide, with Sbuda Maleather contributing local flair that roots the piece in unmistakable South African vibrancy.

Chy Cartier’s “Jozi” captures the vibrant essence of Johannesburg, documented in real-time with lighthearted references to her environment, including a breakfast rusk noted during the recording session. With Royal MusiQ’s strong beats and bass-driven production, the track balances Chy’s clever lyrics and dynamic delivery against Makhanj’s mesmerizing chorus, creating a seamless fusion of global and local influences.

In “Bad One”, Ghetts, recognized as the B.E.T. Award-nominated “MC’s MC,” provides incisive reflections wrapped in confident lyrics. Coupled with TK Creedlion’s innovative Amapiano sound, the track explores complex themes of relationships and successes, supported by rhythmic chants from Makhanj that anchor the song in its African roots.

Uncle Waffles Sparks Africa's Musical Revolution with 'Mix It Up Vol.4'

What distinguishes Mix It Up Vol.4 is not only the impressive lineup of its contributors but also the intricate structure behind its creation. Released under BFM Records, a label associated with the non-profit group Bridges For Music, this project continues its aim of fostering cultural connections through sound. The initiative includes programs like the Ubuntu Stage at EDC Las Vegas, where 21 African artists, including Uncle Waffles, showcased their talent at one of the globe’s largest electronic music festivals, and efforts to elevate township talent through performances at international venues such as Garbicz in Poland and Wonderfruit in Thailand, showcasing BFM’s innovative approach to what a record label can achieve.

This endeavor has also been enabled by a strategic partnership with Nando’s, whose commitment as a supporter of the arts facilitates ambitious collaborations such as this. Providing studio resources in both Johannesburg’s Constitution Hill (Flame Studios) and Soho in London, along with logistical support for bringing together international artists, Nando’s plays a vital role in demonstrating how music can unite people across different cultures.

For Uncle Waffles, taking on the role of executive producer for Mix It Up Vol.4 mirrors her journey as one of Africa’s most compelling cultural influencers. Her vision is central to the project, merging the sounds from various continents into a unified celebration of Amapiano’s worldwide appeal.

With captivating rhythms, authentic storytelling, and adventurous cross-cultural collaborations, Mix It Up Vol.4 represents one of the standout releases from Africa this year; a testament to positive collaboration and evidence that the core of the future music scene is rooted in African culture.

Mix It Up Vol.4 EP Track List: