South African singer and songwriter Naledi Aphiwe has broken her silence following the public conversation surrounding her absence from a heavily promoted Durban July event. Taking to Facebook, the Inanda born artist addressed the criticism directed at her while also shifting the spotlight back to the music she is currently releasing and the projects still on the way.
Naledi, who first won the hearts of many after a video of her singing as a high school learner went viral, has grown into one of the country’s most promising young voices. Her latest statement comes after promoters publicly accused her of failing to honour a booked appearance, sparking widespread discussion across social media and entertainment circles.
Addressing the matter, Naledi Aphiwe explained that artists should not be blamed for situations that arise when agreed payments are not honoured. She shared that event organisers provide promoters with budgets that include artist bookings, and if those funds are not handled correctly, responsibility should remain with those involved in managing the event rather than the performers themselves.
“Please stop blaming artists for situations created by dishonest promoters. Hold the right people accountable. Respect our work the same way you expect us to respect your event. We don’t refuse to perform because we don’t care. We refuse because agreements must be honored. A contract and payment are there for a reason.”
She went on to explain that performing involves more than simply arriving on stage, saying artists travel with teams, cover various expenses and have commitments that depend on payments being made as agreed. According to Naledi Aphiwe, if the agreed funds are not received, she will not perform, stressing that the responsibility should not be shifted onto artists when payment arrangements have not been fulfilled.
While addressing the controversy, Naledi Aphiwe also made it clear that she would rather have the public celebrate her music than continue focusing on the dispute. She encouraged supporters to direct their attention towards the positive developments in her career, including new releases and upcoming projects.
Among those releases is Mpilo Yam, being a newly released collaboration with Danya Devs. Produced by KingLee Beats, the Afro Pop and Amapiano inspired record carries an uplifting message centred on hope, blessings, success, happiness and protection for loved ones. The song marks another significant collaboration for the rising vocalist as she continues expanding her catalogue.
Naledi Aphiwe also revealed that her upcoming EP is approaching release, urging supporters to look forward to that chapter instead of giving energy to ongoing conversations surrounding promoters. The project follows the release of Bayazibuza, her collaboration with Goon Flavour and Spikili, which introduced listeners to the sound and direction of the forthcoming body of work.
She further appealed to members of the media to seek clarity from all parties before publishing stories, saying balanced reporting is important whenever disputes arise.
As Naledi continues building her career, her attention remains firmly on the music. With Mpilo Yam now available and a new EP waiting in the wings, the singer is inviting listeners to focus on the work she believes best represents where she is today.
