South Africa – A social media exchange between acclaimed musicians Zakes Bantwini and DJ Cleo has stirred up heated reactions, with fans and industry insiders weighing in on the drama surrounding the South African Music Awards' (SAMA30) tribute to Kwaito music.
On November 3, 2024, Zakes Bantwini took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to express his disappointment in a since-deleted post. "I really enjoyed the 30-year Kwaito tribute by DJ Cleo," Bantwini tweeted, “but I was disappointed that the Durban Kwaito music era wasn't adequately represented in his mix.” Bantwini's critique quickly drew attention, with fans interpreting it as a pointed comment on DJ Cleo’s role in the tribute performance.
The tribute, part of the 30th annual SAMAs, aimed to honor three decades of Kwaito's influence on South African music. Bantwini’s tweet, though, seemed to challenge the tribute's authenticity and inclusivity, especially regarding Durban’s pivotal role in the genre’s history. The post sparked a wave of responses, with fans defending Bantwini's call for more regional representation, while others saw it as unnecessary public criticism.
DJ Cleo swiftly responded, striking a conciliatory yet critical tone:
"My brother, I love u & your moves & have always rooted for u,” DJ Cleo tweeted. “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."
My brother,
— Eskhaleni Party (@djcleo1) November 4, 2024
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
Cleo’s reply opened up a broader discussion about the music industry’s internal politics, with his reference to the SAMAs as "very political" hinting at the challenges artists face in securing recognition and control over such high-profile tributes. By urging Bantwini to avoid "social media rants," Cleo subtly underscored his belief in handling professional grievances privately rather than publicly, a stance that seemed to resonate with some fans but stirred controversy among others.
Recognizing the friction caused by his initial remarks, Bantwini quickly issued an apology:
"I apologize if my previous tweet offended you," he posted. "My comment was driven by my passion for music. You are right; I should have reached out directly. Please accept my sincere apology. 🙏🏿"
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
Cleo is really dramatic Brother, I can’t believe he is stripping you off your right to have an opinion. This is quite embarrassing, did well by apologising to him so that he can have a filled day!
— Slaughter. (@BafanaSurprise) November 4, 2024
This public clash between Bantwini and DJ Cleo has sparked a broader discussion about how the South African music industry treats regional contributions to the genre, with some observers arguing that Bantwini’s critique was both valid and necessary, while others believe he crossed a line by airing grievances publicly. Whether the SAMAs will address the controversy remains to be seen, but the incident has highlighted the tensions and politics simmering beneath the surface of South Africa’s celebrated music awards.
I saw nothing wrong with ur tweet, Zakes.
— Penuel The Black Pen (@GodPenuel) November 4, 2024
I know Twitter is a very negative space, & perhaps @djcleo1 was worried that trolls will unnecessary turn the tweet into something negative.
I'd personally love seeing more healthy criticism, so we can engage for the ❤️ of music 🙏🏽
