Samthing Soweto speaks out: “I Lied to Sell My Album”
In a recent revelation, Samthing Soweto has come forward on social media to clarify his complicated relationship with DJ Maphorisa. Addressing the ongoing fallout after DJ Maphorisa accused him of being ungrateful, Samthing admitted that he had once lied about Maphorisa’s involvement in his album to boost its sales.
Samthing explained that despite public belief, DJ Maphorisa did not contribute to the production of his album Isphithiphithi. Instead, producers like Mas Musiq, Kabza De Small, and Howard were responsible for most of the work. However, he felt pressured to credit Maphorisa due to his powerful reputation as a hitmaker in the industry.
“I lied because I believed it would help my album sell,” Samthing wrote, adding that the audience’s perception of DJ Maphorisa as a “super producer” made him feel that associating his work with Maphorisa would increase its appeal. Though his strategy worked, leading to strong sales, Samthing Soweto now says he regrets the decision.
“I didn’t know that I’d pay for it with my hard-earned creative works and dignity,” Samthing continued, lamenting that he hasn’t been compensated for his contributions and feels disrespected by Maphorisa, who continues to claim that he “fed” him and helped him rise in the industry.
Samthing Soweto’s bold statements have stirred further debates in the South African music industry regarding the power dynamics between artists and producers, especially when it comes to recognition and fair compensation for creative contributions. Fans have rallied behind Samthing, supporting his decision to finally speak the truth about his work.
Last week, samthing Soweto addressed thecontroversy involving DJ Maphorisa on social media, after fans noticed his vocals were not credited on the track Amalanga Awafani by Mas Musiq. Despite his contributions, the song only liststed Mas Musiq, Lawd Weezy, and DJ Maphorisa as credited artists. This sparked a significant backlash, with many accusing Maphorisa of exploiting Samthing Soweto. After the social media backlash credit was given where it was due.
DJ Maphorisa responded emotionally during an Instagram Live, expressing frustration and calling Samthing Soweto ungrateful. Maphorisa claimed he played a major role in Samthing’s success and felt the singer was unfairly taking advantage of him. He added that Samthing Soweto “didn’t understand the business” of music, especially when it came to ownership of music masters.
Must read: Samthing Soweto reacts to not being credit by Dj Maphorisa on the new song