DJ Maphorisa accused of exploiting other artists
Amidst the rich diversity of South Africa’s entertainment industry, where talent and creativity abound, a darker reality lurks beneath the surface. Behind the glitz and glamour, allegations of exploitation have cast a shadow over the relationships between celebrities and their fellow artists.
From musicians to actors to dancers, stories have emerged of established celebrities exploiting emerging talent for personal gain.
One of the most prevalent forms of exploitation is the appropriation of ideas and work without proper credit or compensation. Emerging artists pour their hearts and souls into their craft, only to find their creations co-opted by more prominent figures without acknowledgment or remuneration.
Additionally, some celebrities have been accused of exploiting their relationships with aspiring artists, promising exposure and advancement in exchange for uncompensated labor or other forms of exploitation. This exploitation of vulnerability not only undermines the integrity of the industry but also perpetuates power imbalances that disadvantage emerging talent.
Moreover, the pervasive culture of competition within the entertainment industry has created fertile ground for exploitation to thrive. In the pursuit of fame and success, some celebrities prioritize their own interests above those of their peers, perpetuating a cutthroat environment where exploitation becomes normalized.
As these stories come to light, there is a growing call for accountability and systemic change within South Africa’s entertainment industry. Artists and activists are advocating for greater transparency, fairer compensation, and stronger protections for emerging talent against exploitation by celebrities and industry insiders.
It is now obvious to the eyes that exploitation is a long-existing parasite eating up the root of the industry.
However, there are some South African celebrities who have been accused of exploitation; while a few were guilty, others appeared to be innocent as there are no evidence.
Connie and her late husband, Shona Ferguson are the owner of the production company Ferguson Films, and this has brought them closer to more talents in the industry. However, while some actors sang their praises, more than two actors have accused the power couple of exploitation.
2. DJ SBU
DJ Sbu has been called out for exploitation numerous times, by just one artist, Zahara, who is now late, as she died in 2023 December. The singer was signed to a record label co-owned by Sbu, but she claimed that she didn’t receive a dime from all the money made from her debut project and single.
3. TK NCIZA
TK was jointly accused of exploiting the late Zahara of all her royalties. However, he revealed after the death of the singer in 2023, that he didn’t owe Zahara, as he cleared off important issues before her passing.
4. DJ MAPHORISA
Maphorisa is undoubtedly the most accused of this category; netizens quickly point at the DJ whenever an artist’s reveal that he/she is being exploited by someone of great influence. Despite recounting his contributions to the South African music industry, DJ Maphorisa is usually called out for gatekeeping and exploiting others in the game.
In conclusion, exploitation has left lots of celebrities in ruins, as a majority usually suffer for a long time before they recover. Which other celeb do you think should be on this list?
