A major production mishap at the 2024 South African Music Awards (SAMA) has left fans and industry professionals stunned, after acclaimed artist De Mthuda was shockingly excluded from performing his new single, ‘Diwa Kae’, at the yellow carpet event.
De Mthuda, widely known for his chart-topping hits and collaborations with the likes of Kabza De Small, Young Stunna, and MKeyz, was set to perform the highly anticipated track for the first time in public. The performance was to feature an all-star lineup, including McKenzie, Mthunzi, and the aforementioned collaborators, making it one of the night’s most anticipated moments.
However, the performance quickly turned into an embarrassing fiasco. Despite De Mthuda’s punctual arrival at the event, he was left waiting for over an hour without any clear instructions. According to reports, the artist was asked to wait in his car after the production team informed him that there was no designated artist waiting area.
The confusion escalated when the production team proceeded to film the performance without De Mthuda, featuring only the other artists involved in the track. In an even more baffling move, De Mthuda was omitted entirely from the final edit of the performance.
“I cannot understand how something like this happens. How do you package a De Mthuda performance without De Mthuda on stage?”
questioned Thabiso Khati, De Mthuda’s manager, in a statement to the press.
The artist’s management and fans have expressed their deep disappointment, with many taking to social media to express their frustration. Fans were left outraged, calling the incident a “disrespect” to the artist and his contribution to the track.
While the production company, RiSA and Sjula D Productions, has since issued a public apology, the situation has raised serious concerns regarding the professionalism and organization of the SAMA Awards.
Despite the apology, producers have refused to re-record the performance, leaving De Mthuda and his team with little recourse.
“De Mthuda has been nothing but professional and patient throughout this process, and for him to be treated like this is unacceptable,”
said Khati.
“We are considering all options moving forward, but this incident speaks volumes about the lack of respect for the artists.”
The SAMA Awards, which are considered one of the biggest nights on South Africa’s music calendar, have long been a platform to showcase the best of the country’s talent. However, this debacle has left a shadow over what was meant to be a night of celebration.
As De Mthuda’s fans and the wider South African music community await a formal response, the incident serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of preparation and respect for the artists who help make such events a success.
For those looking to hear De Mthuda’s latest summer anthem, ‘Diwa Kae’, the track is available for streaming here: De Mthuda’s Diwa Kae.
