South African musician Zakes Bantwini found himself in the middle of a social media storm following his comments about DJ Cleo’s performance during the 30-year tribute at the South African Music Awards (SAMAs).
While Zakes praised the overall tribute, he voiced concerns about the lack of representation of Durban kwaito in the performance mix. Taking to X (formally known as Twitter), Zakes expressed his disappointment.
In his tweet, Zakes highlighted his admiration for the tribute but felt the oversight of Durban kwaito was a missed opportunity. His post quickly gained traction, leading to a public response from DJ Cleo.
“My brother, I love you and your moves and have always rooted for you. I’ve never tweeted or said anything negative about you. You have my number and you know SAMAs are very political and are not my show or platform. Let’s lead the youngins by example and not do social media rants like them I beg,” DJ Cleo responded.
Recognising the impact of his words, Zakes Bantwini issued an apology saying, “I apologise if my previous tweet offended you. My comment was driven by my passion for music. You are right; I should have reached out directly. Please accept my sincere apology.”
My brother,
I love u & your moves & have always rooted for u.
I’ve never tweeted or said anything negative about u.
U have my number & U know, SAMAs r very political & are not my show or platform.Let’s lead the youngins by example & not do social media rants like them
I beg https://t.co/Bx2PfqWL4l pic.twitter.com/52WCduvIT8
— Eskhaleni Party (@djcleo1) November 4, 2024
I apologize if my previous tweet offended you. My comment was driven by my passion for music. You are right; I should have reached out directly. Please accept my sincere apology. ?? https://t.co/2lM6O420l1
— Zakes Bantwini (@ZakesBantwiniSA) November 4, 2024
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