Ntsiki Mazwai Accuses Big Zulu Of Unpaid Studio Work Amid Inkabi Records Row
The post Ntsiki Mazwai Accuses Big Zulu Of Unpaid Studio Work Amid Inkabi Records Row appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag. Ntsiki Mazwai Accuses Big Zulu Of Unpaid Studio Work Amid Inkabi Records Row. South Africa’s music industry is once again under the spotlight, and this time the conversation is shifting from chart success to questions of fairness behind the scenes. Ntsiki Mazwai Accuses Big Zulu Of Unpaid Studio Work Amid Inkabi Records Row As debate … The post Ntsiki Mazwai Accuses Big Zulu Of Unpaid Studio Work Amid Inkabi Records Row appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
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The post Ntsiki Mazwai Accuses Big Zulu Of Unpaid Studio Work Amid Inkabi Records Row appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
Ntsiki Mazwai Accuses Big Zulu Of Unpaid Studio Work Amid Inkabi Records Row. South Africa’s music industry is once again under the spotlight, and this time the conversation is shifting from chart success to questions of fairness behind the scenes.
As debate continues over Mduduzi “Mdu” Ncube’s departure from Inkabi Records, outspoken poet, musician, and cultural commentator Ntsiki Mazwai has entered the fray with allegations that add another layer to the growing controversy.
The latest drama unfolded after Big Zulu took to Facebook to address speculation surrounding Ncube’s exit from the label. In a lengthy post written in Zulu, the rapper appeared to strike a diplomatic tone. He spoke about personal choices, dismissed allegations that he owed money, and even suggested that he and Ncube sit down for a conversation to clear the air. His message concluded with words of encouragement, prayers, and a warm welcome to the broader Nkabi Nation.
While some fans viewed the statement as a peace offering, others detected subtle criticism aimed at Ncube, who has publicly expressed frustration about financial struggles despite years of work under the label. His comments reignited discussions about artist compensation and the realities many musicians face behind the scenes.
Then came Ntsiki Mazwai’s response.
Never one to shy away from uncomfortable conversations, Mazwai challenged Big Zulu’s public stance with a direct accusation.
“Big Zulu shouldn’t speak too loudly. I also wasn’t paid for my studio time for ‘Ugogo.’ They self-enrich at our expense.”
The statement quickly gained traction online. Mazwai was referring to “Ugogo,” a song from Big Zulu’s 2019 album Ungqongqoshe Wongqongqoshe, on which she contributed vocals. According to her, compensation for her studio work never arrived, despite the collaboration becoming part of a successful project.
Her remarks transformed what many saw as a dispute between a label owner and a former artist into a broader conversation about how musicians are treated within the industry. For critics of the current system, Mazwai’s claims echoed familiar complaints about unpaid work, delayed royalties, and contracts that often leave creators feeling shortchanged.
The allegations also place Big Zulu in a difficult position. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a mentor and champion of emerging talent through Inkabi Records. His success story has often been framed around uplifting artists and creating opportunities within the industry. However, public criticism from both a former signee and a respected collaborator presents a more complicated picture.
Whether these incidents represent isolated grievances or point to deeper issues within the label remains a matter of public debate. What is clear is that the conversation has expanded beyond personalities and social media exchanges. It now touches on fundamental questions about transparency, accountability, and the distribution of earnings in South Africa’s music business.
As fans await further responses, including the possibility of the podcast discussion Big Zulu proposed, the controversy continues to fuel debate across the entertainment landscape. At its heart lies a familiar struggle between loyalty and livelihood, mentorship and money, image and reality.
For Ntsiki Mazwai, the issue is straightforward. Public statements and gestures of goodwill mean little if artists feel their contributions have not been properly rewarded. Her comments serve as a reminder that behind every hit song, sold-out performance, and celebratory handshake are creatives whose work deserves recognition and compensation.
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