Rising South African singer Naledi Aphiwe Myongwane has found herself at the centre of a social media storm after a viral post of her making dismissive remarks about legendary group Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
Also see: Naledi Aphiwe weighs in on Lamiez Holworthy lookalike drama
The controversy began when her post began circulating online, with many users claiming that Naledi appeared to undermine the legacy of the globally respected group.
This has fueled outrage and debate across platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
Naledi Aphiwe is insulting the legendary Ladysmith Black Mambazo and she thinks Brands will work with such a attitude pic.twitter.com/x5fBj7P5pC
— IG:Joy-Zelda (@joy_zelda) April 25, 2026
If you’re upset your faves lost at the Metro Awards because of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, maybe use this as a chance to get educated on actual legends first.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo stands as a global icon of South African culture, renowned for their isicathamiya harmonies and… https://t.co/RL8odGfta4 pic.twitter.com/5QeXI3TgW4
— LambChip (@_Lembz) April 26, 2026
Also see:Naledi Aphiwe breaks silence after Stumbo clarifies R5 million deal
Supporters of Ladysmith Black Mambazo wasted no time reacting, many called the alleged comments disrespectful and unnecessary. Others urged younger artists to respect pioneers who paved the way, while some demanded a public apology from Naledi.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo hold legendary status both locally and internationally. The had multiple Grammy Award wins, they are known for preserving and popularising isicathamiya music and have played a major role in taking South African sound to the global stage.
Despite the backlash, some users are urging caution, calling for the full video before judging, suggesting the comments may have been taken out of context and defending Naledi’s right to express opinions.
Naledi Aphiwe throwing shade with captions and they dealt with her in comment section but she’s clapping back😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/hTmJiE6awi
— Mo🧚🏼 (@Pearlyi_n_) April 26, 2026
This young girl called Naledi Aphiwe likes to make enemies and she is still young in the industry how is she going to grow if she is like this😭
She bashes Mawhoo pic.twitter.com/C7IGZm6Ll3
— South Africa/Mzansi 🇿🇦 (@SAupwards) April 26, 2026
Naledi Aphiwe on Ladysmith Black Mambazo winning a Metro FM award. pic.twitter.com/JMXOmFGK0O
— Hlumelo Gemini 043 (@gift_hlumelo) April 27, 2026
Also see: Naledi Aphiwe apologises after comment sparks xenophobia backlash
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp channel for content worth tapping into. Click here to join!
