Focalistic, DJ Maphorisa, others dragged for teasing new song titled ‘Cat Matlala’

Amapiano stars face backlash after previewing track referencing controversial figure Cat Matlala

Focalistic, DJ Maphorisa, Xduppy and Benzoo have come under fire on X after teasing a new track titled Cat Matlala.

A clip of the artists dancing to the unreleased song, first shared by Focalistic, circulated widely on social media and quickly drew criticism.

The backlash centres on the title’s reference to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, a controversial South African businessman and criminal suspect linked to multiple legal dramas, including charges of attempted murder and conspiracy.

Many users felt the musicians were making light of a figure associated with serious allegations.

One user questioned the idea behind the song, writing that one of the artists “had this bright idea, shared it with the others and they thought it was a great idea?”

Another took a direct swipe at Focalistic, saying, “I blame people that kept this boy relevant beyond ‘Ke Star.’”

The criticism continued, with someone else remarking that “South Africa has an unhealthy relationship with criminality.”

Another user confronted Focalistic by name, asking what should be said about the people affected by Matlala’s alleged actions, listing victims and calling the teaser “very disturbing.”

Some users even warned others to check the Instagram comment section before posts get deleted, urging fans to “keep some screenshots before they start gaslighting y’all with mini vlogs.”

Amid the outrage, one X user defended Focalistic and the team, arguing that the reactions were exaggerated.

“Idk maybe le betha ke spitori. The song is not about Cat Matlala 😭 it’s just one line that references him. He said he’s a cat like Matlala, simple comparison. Rap folks do this all the time.”

See the video below:

Focalistic teases new music “Cat Matlala” with Xduppy & Benzoo & Feat.
DJ Maphorisa. pic.twitter.com/2IJuT6AiTn

— The Hype Channel (@TheHypeChannel_) December 10, 2025