Mduduzi Ncube Breaks Silence on Inkabi Records Exit as Money Dispute Claims Emerge

Musician Mduduzi Ncube has sparked major attention in the South African music industry after hinting that he may reveal the full story behind his departure from Big Zulu’s Inkabi Records. The Dear Ex Yami hitmaker, aged 31 and originally from Hammarsdale in KwaZulu-Natal, confirmed that financial issues played a role in his exit. He has, however, chosen not to share all the details immediately and instead plans to explain everything on a podcast interview. His comments have fueled public curiosity because both Mduduzi and Inkabi Records initially presented the split as amicable. The situation has now shifted into a public debate about money, royalties and artist management in local record labels.

Mduduzi left Inkabi Records in March and launched his own label called BLVCK Bird Studios, marking a new chapter in his music career. At the time of his departure, there were no public signs of conflict between him and label boss Big Zulu. Big Zulu publicly congratulated him and wished him success, while Mduduzi thanked the label for helping elevate his career. This mutual respect created the impression of a smooth transition. However, Mduduzi later confirmed that behind-the-scenes issues existed, including disagreements related to payments and royalties. These claims have now shifted public focus toward what really happens between artists and record labels when contracts end.

According to Mduduzi, the decision to speak out will not happen through short interviews but through a long-form podcast episode scheduled for Thursday, 18 June. He explained that he needs enough time to properly tell his story without restrictions. He stated that money was one of the key reasons for leaving Inkabi Records, especially issues related to royalties. He also suggested that there were other contributing factors that he will disclose in detail during the podcast. His approach indicates that the matter may involve more complex industry dynamics than what has been publicly shared so far. Fans are now waiting to hear whether his full explanation will change how people view his time at the label.

Inkabi Records boss Big Zulu has strongly denied any claims that Mduduzi or any other artist was owed money. He responded by saying he is open to addressing the matter publicly and even suggested he would like to join the same podcast to give his side of the story. Big Zulu argued that if there are concerns about payments, they should be discussed openly and fairly. He also encouraged any other artists who believe they are owed money to come forward. His response shows confidence in the label’s financial dealings and suggests he is ready for public scrutiny if needed. This back-and-forth has added tension to what was once seen as a successful artist-label partnership.

Mduduzi Ncube’s journey in the music industry has been closely followed by fans across South Africa. He first gained widespread attention in 2019 after a viral moment where he camped outside DJ Tira’s office in Durban, playing guitar in hopes of being noticed. His talent eventually earned him recognition, and he was signed under Inkabi Records by Big Zulu. Under the label, he grew into one of the prominent voices in contemporary Afro-pop, building a strong fan base and releasing multiple hit songs. Tracks such as Dear Ex Yami, Ngeke Ngimyeke, Malokazi, Isginci, Angisakhoni and Langa Linye helped cement his place in the industry. His story became an example of how raw talent can be transformed into commercial success through the support of established labels.

Inkabi Records itself became known as a platform that nurtured several artists, including Mduduzi Ncube alongside names such as Lwah Ndlunkulu, Xowla, Siya Ntuli and Big Zulu. The label played a major role in shaping a distinct sound in South African music, blending storytelling with Afro-soul and hip-hop influences. Mduduzi’s departure now raises broader questions about how independent labels manage contracts, royalties and artist relationships. It also highlights the growing trend of artists seeking independence to control their careers and earnings. BLVCK Bird Studios represents Mduduzi’s move toward full creative and business control, a path many artists are now exploring in the modern music landscape.

The unfolding situation between Mduduzi Ncube and Inkabi Records has placed a spotlight on transparency in the South African music industry. While fans await his full statement, the conversation has already expanded beyond one artist and one label. It reflects ongoing challenges around trust, money and creative ownership in music business structures. Whether Mduduzi’s upcoming podcast will provide clarity or deepen the controversy remains to be seen. What is clear is that his story continues to attract strong public interest, and his next steps will likely influence how both fans and industry players view artist-label relationships going forward.

The post Mduduzi Ncube Breaks Silence on Inkabi Records Exit as Money Dispute Claims Emerge appeared first on SA Music Magazine.