Mpumalanga DJ trades lockdown hobby for passionate music career on global stage
Doll Yamama is aiming for the stars as she continues to conquer dance floors in Dubai, Tanzania, and Mozambique.
From a quiet lockdown hobby to sharing global stages with big artists, Nkomazi’s very own DJ, widely known as Doll Yamama, is proving that talent knows no borders.
Cornelia Qwabe’s journey behind the decks began during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and was introduced to her by friends. Unknowingly, what started as a casual pastime quickly ignited a fierce professional passion.
By 2022, her undeniable talent took over local venues, where she played afrohouse and amapiano. In just a few years, Doll Yamama has stamped her passport across the continent and beyond, delivering high-energy sets in Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Dubai.
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However, it was a trip to West Africa in 2024 that fulfilled her ultimate career milestone.
“Playing in Nigeria was my biggest dream. It was an unforgettable experience sharing the stage with global giants such as D’Banj and Gunna. I got to meet the lovely Tiwa Savage and Ayra Starr,” she said.
Despite her rapid international success, Doll Yamama remains deeply grounded and passionate about inspiring the next generation of local creatives coming out of Mpumalanga.
She said it has taken an immense amount of dedication and hard work to get to this level of perfecting her stage presence and mixing skills.
She boasts a striking style and figure. Her electric performances are compared to amapiano sensation, Uncle Waffles. She brings a captivating, effortless glamour that commands the crowd’s attention the moment she steps into the booth.
“I get the comparison a lot, but it is unintentional. I look up to Uncle Waffles and other female DJs that have carved the path for us to reach places and be in rooms that did not favour female DJs in the past,” she said.
Doll Yamama said she is already working on producing her own music later this year.
Her advice to aspiring young DJs is to sustain a prayerful life and believe in themselves. “In addition, surround yourself with a great support system that will not pull you down. You need that foundation to truly pursue your dreams.”
