‘Some people are industry plants’- Ntiski Mazwai on Tyla’s Grammy win

by Limpho Nonkonyane

Ntsiki Mazwai, a poet and activist known for her controversial views, has sparked controversy on social media by commenting on Tyla’s first Grammy win. The South African singer received the prestigious award for her song Water during this year’s 66th annual presentation in Los Angeles.

Ntsiki accused Tyla of being an industry plant. According to the website Loud and Quiet, an industry plant is someone who seems to be an independent artist but secretly has backing from the industry with money funding to artificially build such a narrative. Although Ntsiki admitted liking Tyla’s music, she remained suspicious and expressed scepticism towards the West for their behaviour towards South Africa.

Ntsiki posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) where she referred to a Katt Williams interview. In this interview, the comedian spoke about certain celebrities who are believed to be industry plants working in Hollywood.

Many users did not agree with Ntsiki’s statement as they felt that Tyla’s achievement in a foreign country puts South Africans on the map in terms of music and that she should be celebrated regardless of whether she is an industry plant or not.

One user said, “Just because you failed to achieve such. Relax boo, sharp neh? [adding TikToker Sis Maria’s famous line].”

Also see: GALLERY: Celebs shine bright on the Grammys red carpet