South African rapper and Inkabi Records boss Big Zulu has weighed in on the growing controversy surrounding his record label, questioning why some artists turn against the very people who helped establish their careers.
The musician recently addressed the issue during a social media livestream, where he defended Inkabi Records against allegations of unfair treatment and financial exploitation. His comments come during an ongoing dispute involving singer Lwah Ndlunkulu, who has raised concerns about her relationship with the label.
During his live, Big Zulu expressed frustration over what he believes is a growing tendency among artists to blame record labels when things go wrong in their careers. He questioned why the contributions of record labels are often overlooked, particularly when artists achieve financial success.
The rapper pointed to musicians who have reportedly managed to purchase houses and cars within just three to four years of joining Inkabi Records, arguing that such achievements demonstrate the opportunities and support provided by the label.
Big Zulu also suggested that some artists struggle with managing their finances and later hold their record labels responsible when they experience financial difficulties.
Although he did not directly single out Lwah Ndlunkulu, he mentioned her alongside fellow Inkabi Records artists Mduduzi Ncube and Ntaba Yase Dubai while reflecting on the progress musicians have made under the label.
His remarks come at a particularly sensitive time for Inkabi Records, following reports that Lwah is unhappy with certain aspects of her contractual and financial arrangements.
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The controversy intensified after allegations surrounding the singer's wellbeing emerged, prompting Inkabi Records to release an official statement addressing the situation. The label confirmed that Lwah was receiving professional care at a wellness and rehabilitation facility and maintained that it had been working closely with her family to support her recovery.
Inkabi Records also rejected claims of financial misconduct, insisting that its dealings with the singer had been fair and in accordance with their contractual agreements.
Big Zulu's comments have since added another dimension to the conversation, raising questions about loyalty, financial responsibility and the relationship between artists and the record labels that invest in their careers.
While some may agree with his views on artists acknowledging the support they receive, the controversy also highlights broader concerns about transparency, fair compensation and accountability within the South African music industry.
With tensions surrounding Inkabi Records continuing to attract public attention, the situation has sparked an important debate about where the responsibility lies when relationships between artists and their record labels begin to fall apart.
