Big Zulu Denies Exploitation Claims in TikTok Live Amid Lwah Ndlunkulu Controversy

South African hip-hop artist and Inkabi Records founder Big Zulu, born Siyabonga Nene, has pushed back against accusations of financial exploitation during an emotional TikTok livestream, following mounting speculation over Afro-pop singer Lwah Ndlunkulu’s situation at the label.

Addressing viewers directly on Tuesday, 10 November, a visibly frustrated Big Zulu rejected public narratives suggesting his record label underpays its roster. He stated that if he were permitted to publicly disclose what happens behind closed doors, fans would be shocked by the reality of the situation.

During the broadcast, the label boss accused certain artists of showing disrespect despite his extensive efforts to mentor them. He alleged that some musicians mismanage and squander their earnings, only to turn to social media with false claims of financial mistreatment once they run out of money.

While Big Zulu stopped short of naming Ndlunkulu as the direct subject of those specific spending accusations, he pointed to the rapid material success achieved by his signees—explicitly citing Lwah Ndlunkulu, Mduduzi Ncube, and Intaba Yase Dubai—as proof of fair compensation. He noted that these artists were able to build houses and purchase luxury vehicles within just three to four years of signing with Inkabi Records.

Big Zulu further criticised social media users for what he described as a double standard in how the label is judged. He argued that when artists achieve major milestones, the public credits the individual artists exclusively without acknowledging Inkabi Records, yet when an artist’s career or personal life falters, the label is immediately blamed.

The livestream came on the same day Inkabi Records issued a formal media statement addressing claims raised on the Podcast and Chill programme regarding Ndlunkulu’s alleged grievances. In that official release, the company denied any wrongdoing, confirmed Ndlunkulu is receiving treatment for psychosis at a wellness and rehabilitation facility, and maintained that its contractual dealings with her have remained fair and transparent.

https://x.com/BuzzLifenews/status/2120208064192106981?a=Q7ttdviRqSUFzh6gcEA&s=20

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