Meet Uncle Don: Mzansi's TikTok sensation at 50 who won Drake's heart with his musical passion

Emmanuel Madonsela, or Uncle Don as many affectionately call him, has become one of the internet’s most loved uncles.

His story did not begin on a big stage or behind a DJ booth; it started with his pure love for House music in his office at Makro, where he would record himself dancing during breaks. 

The videos of the “dancing uncle in the Makro uniform” gained traction across social media and turned him into a TikTok favourite.

In 2024, that joy and energy caught the attention of US artists Gordo and Drake, who featured him in their music video for their song “Healing”.

The short documentary-style video was shot in his hometown of Dududu in KwaZulu-Natal and followed his daily routine with his wife and children. 

He opened up about their long morning walks and how he quietly prayed for a car so his wife would not have to walk such long distances for the rest of her life. He walked roughly 14 kilometres to work every day, regardless of the weather, and still showed up with a smile.

The video ends with a moment that changed everything as Uncle Don and his family were asked to step outside and were met with a surprise gift parked in front of them. A brand-new VW Polo Vivo.

His reaction was one of pure disbelief, while his wife celebrated next to him. Even though Gordo could not be there in person, he said the best part of the entire process was seeing Uncle Don receive the car. He hoped the video would remind people that joy can be found even in the hardest seasons.

“About two months ago, while I was scrolling through TikTok, I stumbled upon THE DON Madfunz, a guy from South Africa with amazing energy. His taste in music grabbed my attention, but it was his dancing, smile and story that really hooked me,” said the artist.

That moment became a turning point, not only for his life but for his confidence. Today, Uncle Don is on a whole new journey. He is learning how to DJ at 50 years old, sharing every chapter with his followers.

His TikTok is filled with videos of him practising, attending events, and drawing inspiration from some of the best DJs in the country, including Black Coffee and Oscar Mbo. 

His comment section is full of people cheering him on and celebrating his growth. With 218,000 followers, he has built a community that truly believes in him.

He recently shared a series of pictures with a message that touched many. Uncle Don reminded his followers that dreams do not come with an expiry date. 

He spoke about Morgan Freeman getting his big break at almost 50 and how stepping into your calling later in life is still stepping into your calling. Turning 50 for the internet's favourite uncle was not a reason to slow down.

The caption of the post describes him as a student of sound, a believer in rhythm and a man who knows that music heals, connects and brings people back to themselves.

His journey has also elevated his fashion sense. Previously, he was always seen in his Makro uniform; however, his wardrobe has since evolved to the trendiest looks. 

Uncle Don’s story is a reminder of second chances. A reminder that you are never too old to start again and that passion has a way of finding its way back to you.