Queens of the Decks: How female DJs From Nigeria and South Africa Are Redefining African Music
Discover the female DJS transforming music culture in Nigeria and South Africa — one beat, one set, and one stage at a time.
Intro
In a male-dominated industry, female DJS across Nigeria and South Africa are rising fast, breaking boundaries and commanding crowds with unmatched energy and creativity. These talented women are defying stereotypes and pushing their way to the forefront of the music scene, proving that skill, passion, and presence know no gender. Their rise isn’t just about representation; it’s a cultural shift that signals a new era in African music, where diversity on the decks is becoming just as essential as the music itself. Through tireless hustle and an unshakable belief in their craft, they’re creating space where there once was none.
More than just spinning records, these DJS are reshaping the sound and image of African music culture. From the pulsating and smooth rhythms of Afrobeat and the catchy groove of Amapiano to the gritty edge of hip-hop and the hypnotic beats of house music, these DJS are blending genres with flair and confidence, turning every performance into a statement. On stages big and small, in underground scenes and global festivals, they’re not only setting dancefloors ablaze but also rewriting narratives. With each set, they’re changing perceptions—showing that the future of African music is bold, inclusive, and powered by women with vision and vibe.
Nigeria’s Sound Sorceresses
Over the past decade, Nigeria’s music scene has been energized by some of the most talented and innovative female DJs. From the vibrant DJ Cuppy to the veteran DJ Lambo, these women have not only broken barriers but also redefined what it means to be a DJ in a male dominated industry. Here’s a spotlight on some of Naija’s top female DJs who are spinning their way to the top and making serious waves in the industry.
1. DJ Cuppy
The name DJ Cuppy is synonymous with style, substance, and sound. Florence Otedola, daughter of billionaire Femi Otedola, has crafted her own brand with a signature pink flair and Afrobeat drenched sets that appeal to both Nigerian and international audiences. Beyond the decks, she’s a producer, philanthropist, and cultural influencer who’s brought visibility to female DJs across Africa. With her vibrant persona and tireless work ethic, Cuppy has become a staple in the conversation around modern African music, blending her heritage with global influences to craft a sound that’s both unique and universally appealing.
Cuppy’s achievements stretch far beyond music. She has released multiple singles and two studio albums—Original Copy and Cuppy This Tune Vol. 1—featuring collaborations with artists like Fireboy DML, Teni, Rema and Stonebwoy. She was the official DJ for the 2015 MTV Africa Music Awards and has performed at major global events, including the BET Awards and SXSW. In academia, she earned a Master’s degree in Music Business from New York University and another in African Studies from Oxford University. Through her Cuppy Foundation, she has raised millions for education and child welfare in Nigeria. As a UNICEF ambassador, she uses her platform to advocate for youth empowerment and access to quality education, proving that her influence goes far beyond the turntables.
2. DJ Lambo
If you know anything about Nigeria’s hip-hop scene, DJ Lambo is a name you can’t ignore. Born Olawunmi Okerayi, she carved a space for herself in a heavily male-dominated field with a bold sound that blends hip-hop, Afro-house, and electronica. Her fearless stage presence, gritty mixes, and ability to control a crowd have made her one of Nigeria’s most respected DJs. She’s not just about the music, Lambo exudes a raw confidence that challenges norms and empowers young women to take charge of their own narrative in the music industry.
A former president of Choc Boi Nation under Chocolate City Music, DJ Lambo made history by becoming one of the few women to lead a major Nigerian music label. Her influence goes beyond the booth, she’s a tastemaker, executive, and advocate for more inclusive representation in the entertainment world. She’s performed at top festivals like Gidi Fest, One Lagos Fiesta, and the Big Brother Naija stage, while also hosting her own radio shows that spotlight underground talent. With a deep commitment to pushing boundaries and mentoring the next wave of female DJs, DJ Lambo remains a dynamic force in shaping the future of African music.
3. DJ Nana
From winning the Airtel Female DJ contest to gracing the stages of major Nigerian events, DJ Nana’s rise is a powerful story of talent meeting opportunity. With a sharp ear for rhythm and an instinctive connection with her audience, she quickly became one of the most respected female DJs in the country. Her sets—fueled by a seamless fusion of Afrobeat, hip-hop, and house—are known for their precision, energy, and crowd control. DJ Nana has built a solid reputation as a go-to name for top-tier nightlife events, music festivals, and corporate gigs across Nigeria.
Beyond her turntable skills, DJ Nana has remained a consistent presence in the entertainment scene, earning acclaim for both her versatility and professionalism. She has performed alongside industry heavyweights and brought her signature sound to high profile platforms like the Headies, Lagos Countdown, and the Gidi Culture Festival. As a role model for up-and-coming female DJs, she often speaks on the importance of discipline, practice, and self-confidence in a competitive industry. DJ Nana continues to blaze her trail with quiet determination, showing that excellence and consistency are just as loud as hype.
4. DJ Yin
An eclectic mix of sounds defines DJ Yin’s artistry. Blending alternative, house, Afrobeats, and electronic influences, she brings a refreshing and experimental energy to every performance. Her sets defy genre boundaries, offering listeners an immersive sonic experience that feels both intimate and futuristic. With a strong DIY spirit and a deeply creative edge, DJ Yin has carved out a niche that appeals to both underground music lovers and mainstream audiences looking for something different.
But Yin’s talent goes far beyond her ability to spin records, she’s also a skilled producer and vocalist. Her original tracks and collaborations showcase her versatility, with songs that span moody electronica to dance floor ready bangers. Notably, she has worked with artists like Tay Iwar, Bankyondbeatz, and Remy Baggins, establishing herself as a serious force behind the boards. Whether she’s performing at experimental showcases or producing genre-bending tracks, DJ Yin continues to push boundaries, building a reputation as one of the most innovative female creatives in Africa’s evolving music scene.
5. DJ Frizzie
Vibrant, energetic, and bold, DJ Frizzie is making serious waves across Lagos and Abuja with her dynamic sets and magnetic stage presence. Known for her seamless transitions and genre-blending style, she effortlessly moves between Afro-pop, hip-hop, dancehall, and more, keeping crowds on their feet from start to finish. Frizzie’s performances are more than just parties, they’re high-octane experiences that celebrate rhythm, culture, and unapologetic self-expression. Her flair behind the decks and deep understanding of musical flow have earned her regular appearances at top clubs, corporate events, and cultural festivals.
Beyond her work as a DJ, Frizzie is a passionate advocate for female empowerment in the entertainment industry. She uses her platform to highlight the challenges women face in the male-dominated DJ space and consistently pushes for more visibility and opportunities for female talent. She’s spoken on industry panels, mentored upcoming DJs, and championed collaborations that put women at the center of the conversation. With her blend of musical excellence and outspoken activism, DJ Frizzie is not just entertaining crowds, she’s changing the game and inspiring the next generation of African women in music.
South Africa’s Turntable Titans
From club bangers to international stages, South Africa’s top female DJs are turning up the heat and reshaping the sound of the scene—one mix at a time. Here’s the best of the best of female South African Djs who are setting trends and breaking barriers.
1. Uncle Waffles
The internet’s darling and Amapiano’s breakout star, Uncle Waffles skyrocketed to fame with her infectious energy and jaw-dropping dance moves behind the decks. Her viral moments on social media, particularly the iconic dance clips where she effortlessly grooves to the rhythm of her sets, captivated audiences worldwide and introduced a fresh, vibrant energy to the Amapiano scene. Beyond the viral fame, Uncle Waffles has proven that her appeal is built on more than just a moment—she’s a skilled DJ whose musicality and stage presence command attention. With every set, she combines the infectious rhythms of Amapiano with her own unique flair, making her performances an unforgettable celebration of African music.
Since her rise to stardom, Uncle Waffles has transcended the viral moment, taking her Amapiano sound to global stages and performing in cities across Africa, Europe, and beyond. She’s worked with some of the biggest names in Amapiano and African music, including artists like Mr JazziQ, Busta 929, and Lady Du. She’s performed at major events like the Global Citizen Festival, the South African Amapiano Awards, and the One Africa Music Fest, alongside international stars such as Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido. As a trailblazer for the genre, she’s introduced Amapiano to new audiences, breaking down barriers and expanding the global reach of African music. With her undeniable talent, unstoppable energy, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of African music, Uncle Waffles continues to make history, one beat at a time.
2. DJ Zinhle
More than a DJ, DJ Zinhle is a multifaceted brand and one of South Africa’s most respected entertainment figures. With a career spanning over a decade, she has consistently proven her ability to evolve and stay ahead of the curve. Known for her signature Afro-house sets infused with soulful grooves, Zinhle creates an atmosphere that’s both vibrant and emotionally resonant, making her a favorite on the club circuit and at high profile music festivals. She has headlined major events such as the Durban July, Cape Town International Jazz Festival, and the Red Bull Music Festival, bringing her magnetic presence and polished sound to diverse audiences across the continent.
But Zinhle’s influence extends far beyond the DJ booth. She is a successful entrepreneur and media personality, with her Era by DJ Zinhle accessories line becoming one of South Africa’s most recognized lifestyle brands. She also runs a home décor business, has appeared on reality TV, and authored a book aimed at inspiring women in business. Zinhle is celebrated not only for her music but also for her role as a trailblazer for women in male-dominated spaces. With her blend of artistic excellence and business acumen, DJ Zinhle has redefined what it means to be a modern African woman in entertainment—confident, creative, and completely in control.
3. DJ LKG
Lerato Kganyago, widely known as DJ LKG, is a seasoned media personality and multifaceted entertainer whose impact spans radio, television, and the DJ booth. With her polished presence and unmistakable charisma, she seamlessly blends her on-screen magnetism with her musical talent to command any crowd she performs for. Known for her energetic house and commercial dance sets, DJ LKG brings a unique flair that transforms every performance into a high-energy celebration. Her sets are carefully curated, rhythm-driven experiences that keep audiences locked in from the first beat to the last drop.
A regular fixture at some of South Africa’s most prestigious events and music festivals—including the Durban July, Huawei Joburg Day, and the Metro FM Music Awards—DJ LKG has solidified her place as a top-tier performer. Beyond the decks, she’s also a respected voice in the entertainment industry, using her platform to advocate for women’s empowerment and mental health awareness. Her versatility as both a media figure and a DJ has made her one of the most influential women in South African entertainment. Whether on air, on screen, or on stage, DJ LKG continues to raise the bar, showing that excellence in entertainment comes in many forms—and she masters them all.
4. Ms Cosmo
Radio queen turned DJing dynamo, Ms Cosmo is a powerhouse in South Africa’s music and media scene. With deep roots in hip-hop and a flair for blending local and international sounds, she brings a distinct flavor to the dancefloor that resonates with fans across genres. As a DJ, her sets are bold and high-energy, often featuring a seamless fusion of hip-hop, R&B, and Amapiano with a global edge. Her years as a prominent radio host have honed her ability to read and connect with audiences, making her live performances as engaging as they are electrifying.
Beyond the decks, Ms Cosmo is a multi-hyphenate force—producer, podcaster, and advocate for women in the industry. She’s released a string of successful singles featuring top-tier artists like Nasty C, Sho Madjozi, and Rouge, showcasing her talent for curating soundscapes that highlight South African excellence. Through her podcast SHE Social and various mentorship efforts, she actively works to spotlight and uplift female creatives, using her voice and platform to champion representation and unity. Ms Cosmo isn’t just spinning records—she’s building bridges, breaking barriers, and redefining what it means to be a woman in music.
Conclusion: The Beat Goes On
These women aren’t just making music, they’re making history. Armed with unmatched talent, relentless hustle, and unapologetic authenticity, female DJs in Nigeria and South Africa are shaking up the scene and reshaping the narrative in an industry that has, for far too long, been dominated by men. From club residencies to festival stages, from underground events to mainstream airwaves, they’re not just showing up behind the decks — they’re taking full control of the vibe and the vision.
No longer confined to the sidelines, these women are turning tables and commanding respect in every corner of the music world. They blend genres, break barriers, and bring a fresh perspective to every beat they drop. Their presence signals a powerful shift: a reminder that greatness knows no gender, and that the future of African music is as diverse and dynamic as its people.
As the African music wave continues its unstoppable rise on the global stage, expect these queens to be right at the forefront — curating culture, pushing sonic boundaries, and owning the night, beat by beat.
