On a star-studded evening in Los Angeles, three South African music powerhouses — Uncle Waffles, Scorpion Kings and Major League DJz — brought the unmistakable rhythm of Amapiano to the heart of Hollywood. The occasion was H&M&LA, a one-night-only cultural festival hosted by H&M in celebration of its Spring/Summer 2025 collection.
Amapiano Commands the Spotlight
The event brought together a dynamic blend of fashion and music, with performances from global artists including Doechii, Robyn, Jamie xx, PinkPantheress and SAILORR. However, it was the South African contingent that truly captivated the crowd, offering a masterclass in performance, cultural identity and global influence.
Doechii Performing on Stage at H&M@LA
Uncle Waffles delivered a vibrant, high-energy DJ set that effortlessly fused sound and movement. Her presence commanded attention, reaffirming her status as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary music today.
Uncle Waffles delivered a vibrant, high-energy DJ set
Scorpion Kings, the iconic duo of DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small, followed with a deep, immersive set that showcased their ability to bridge underground roots with global appeal. Major League DJz brought their signature sound to the stage, blending Afrocentric rhythms with international sensibilities in a way that continues to push Amapiano forward on the world stage.
Scorpion Kings, the iconic duo of DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small
Iconic Djs, Major League DJz
More Than Just a Performance
Together, these three acts demonstrated the richness and versatility of South African music. Their sets were more than just performances. They were cultural statements — a celebration of identity, creativity and global resonance.
South African personalities Elaine, Melody Molale and Violy Nyama were also present as friends of the brand, joining international guests such as Tyla, Dakota Fanning, Amelia Gray, Barbie Ferreira, Amelia Dimoldenberg and Dixie D’Amelio. The guest list reflected the festival’s aim to bridge local and global talent in a space that celebrates culture through both fashion and sound.
Elaine, Melody Molale, Tyla and Violy Nyama
Fashion Meets Cultural Expression
According to Jörgen Andersson, H&M’s Chief Creative Officer, “This one-of-a-kind festival is a celebration of fashion, music, joy and community — the very heart of what H&M is all about.” While the event paid homage to the creative spirit of Los Angeles, it was the presence of South African artists that gave the evening a sense of global texture and depth.
Tyla, Sydney Seethal
The festival also marked the international launch of Chapter Two of H&M’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection. Rooted in bohemian influences and inspired by the history of music, the collection draws from the romanticism of festival fashion, the eclecticism of rock and roll, and the vintage allure of Glam Rock and New Romantic styling. It will be available in South Africa this August.
Global Stage, Local Power
With multiple stages, digital installations and a visual language inspired by cinema and nostalgia, H&M&LA was more than a festival. It was a cultural exchange. And in the spotlight were Uncle Waffles, Scorpion Kings and Major League DJz — proudly representing Mzansi and reminding the world of South Africa’s unmatched creative power.
