Summer Walker Apologises After Pretoria Festival Set Cut Short

by Zaghrah Anthony

Summer Walker Issues Apology After 30-Minute Pretoria Performance

South African fans of R&B sensation Summer Walker were left disappointed after her headlining performance at the ‘In The City’ festival in Pretoria on October 5 was abruptly cut short. The singer took to social media to apologise, explaining that the 30-minute set was not her choice.

“It Was Not My Fault,” Says Walker

On X, Walker wrote:

“South Africa, I love you guys so much. You guys were the best show. I wanted to do the full hour, but the venue and SA police didn’t allow me to; it was not my fault. I love you guys, I’ll be back soon.”

On Instagram, she elaborated further, placing some blame on the event promoter:

“@steynent, as the promoter of the event refused to pay the JOC, so it messed up the whole show even though we were early. Love you guys until next time.”

Despite the frustration of a shortened set, fans expressed understanding for Walker while criticising the festival organisers for poor planning.

 

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Fan Frustration and Social Media Backlash

Audience members took to social media to voice their disappointment. Some comments highlighted a sense of injustice:

  • “These promoters didn’t do justice; they did her wrong @summerwalker. We stand with you.”

  • “We want our money back – disregard for the people who paid and got there on time! Disrespectful to the headliner – horrible planning.”

Others suggested Walker should consider a solo concert to give fans the full experience:

“30 minutes of Summer Walker… You guys must be kidding! What kind of headline act has half the set of the supporting artists? Feels like we were scammed!” – Lauren Mkhungela

Critics of the festival organisation also raised questions about venue restrictions and overtime:

“Surely someone on your team could have anticipated the concert running late. If overtime was such a big issue, why wasn’t it built into the cost or discussed with JOC beforehand?” – Tamjam

A Look at Summer Walker’s Rise

Walker, who broke onto the R&B scene with her 2019 debut album “Over It”, quickly became a global sensation. Hits like “Playing Games”, “Come Thru” with Usher, and “Stretch You Out” with A Boogie Wit da Hoodie established her as a voice for candid storytelling and emotional authenticity.

Her follow-up album, “Still Over It”, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, featuring collaborations with Cardi B, SZA, Lil Durk, and JT of City Girls. Walker’s music resonates with fans worldwide because of its honesty, exploring love, heartbreak, and personal growth.

Even with her growing reputation, Walker has faced occasional show cancellations or shortened performances, but her loyal fan base often praises her transparency and the relatability of her work.

Walker promised fans she would return to South Africa to give them the full experience, hinting at future shows where she can properly perform her catalogue. Independent Media Lifestyle has reached out to Steyn Entertainment for comment on the festival and will provide updates as they become available.

For now, Pretoria fans are left hoping that Walker’s next visit will deliver the full hour of music they’ve been waiting for.

Source: IOL

Featured Image: X{@swinfos}