Rising Amapiano star Thatohatsi Raphadi finds strength in fan love
Amapiano sensation Thatohatsi Raphadi has shared a heartfelt message of gratitude to her fans, following hurtful remarks about her body made on the popular “Piano Pulse” podcast last week.
The singer, who has been quietly building a name for herself in South Africa’s Amapiano scene, took to Instagram on Sunday, 18 January, to thank the wave of support she received from fans, fellow artists, and supporters who rallied around her after the incident went viral.
“I would like to thank each and everyone who has been so supportive to me. I read your messages, comments and videos that were made to uplift me, ngyabonga ngok’khulu ukuy’thoba (thank you very much),” she wrote. “Without God and you guys, I don’t think I would’ve gained so much strength to come back and be myself again.”
Raphadi described the messages of encouragement as a “huge, warm hug” that helped her regain confidence and embrace her natural self, despite the negativity directed at her.
@yesterdayentertainment Sfiso on thato hatsi #thakgi #pianopulse #sfiso #thatohatsi #bodyweight ♬ original sound – Yesterday Entertainment
Podcast remarks spark outrage
The controversy began when a short clip from “Piano Pulse” went viral. Co-host Sfiso “Mafitsotso” Ndlovu joked about Raphadi’s body, saying she would “never gain weight, she’s originally like that,” while guest Nota Baloyi added remarks comparing her unfavorably to fellow artist Zee Nxumalo.
The comments left Raphadi visibly hurt, prompting her to post a candid TikTok video using the podcasters’ words as background sound. In her video, she opened up about the emotional toll of constantly defending her body, captioning it: “Not suicidal, but I wouldn’t mind at this point.”
Social media quickly turned into a source of comfort for the rising star, with fans sharing messages celebrating her beauty, confidence, and talent.
@lwaarh_
Ayy yabona nje🙆🏾
♬ original sound – Nang’ulwaaa!!!
Fellow artists step in
Among those rallying behind Raphadi was Lady Du, who praised the singer for embracing her natural form. “I’m posting you on my wall to tell you how beautiful you are. I grew up a skinny girl, I loved my body, even when I didn’t have the confidence, but I embraced it,” she wrote. Lady Du highlighted that Raphadi represents countless young women navigating societal expectations of beauty, reminding everyone that she is “made in God’s image.”
Fans also criticized the podcast for focusing on Raphadi’s appearance instead of her music, calling out the co-hosts for making a personal attack rather than discussing the Amapiano tracks and performances she’s known for.
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Standing tall amid criticism
Despite the negativity, Thatohatsi Raphadi has emerged with renewed strength, using the support from fans and fellow musicians as a reminder to celebrate her natural body and her artistry. Her message serves as a beacon for young women in South Africa and beyond, highlighting the importance of self-love and the power of community in the digital age.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X{@FairJoyZA_}
