Amapiano’s fast-rising star, Scotts Maphuma, has spoken out following widespread criticism from fans who accused him of having a bad attitude and being unapproachable. The 29-year-old musician, whose real name is Mpho Lebajoa, shared an emotional apology on social media and addressed the backlash that has recently surrounded his public image.
“I want to take a moment to sincerely apologise to all my supporters. I’ve let some of you down, and I take full responsibility. Growth comes with owning your mistakes. I’m committed to doing better, for myself and for you. Thank you for still believing in me,” he wrote.
want to take a moment to sincerely apologize to all my supporters. I’ve let some of you down, and I take full responsibility. Growth comes with owning your mistakes and I’m committed to doing better, for myself and for you. Thank you for still believing in me.
— Real Scotts Maphuma (@RealScotts_M) May 7, 2025
Scotts is best known for his popular song Yebo Lapho, which made waves in the amapiano music scene and helped him rise to fame. His unique sound and exciting live performances earned him a growing fan base, but recent events have cast a shadow over his reputation.
Many fans on social media accused the artist of being rude, especially during public appearances where he reportedly refused to take photos with supporters. Videos surfaced online showing him walking away from fans or responding negatively when asked for selfies. This led to strong reactions online, with some fans saying he seemed “arrogant” and “disrespectful.”
To address the situation, Scotts joined an Instagram Live session with famous DJ and producer Maphorisa. During the session, Maphorisa told him bluntly, “People in the streets are angry at you.” Scotts, clearly affected by the criticism, replied, “It’s a misunderstanding. It’s impossible for me to have an attitude. I’m sorry. Please, forgive me.”
Scotts Maphuma apologises to fans live from IG with Dj Maphorisa. pic.twitter.com/frVngSKMSG
— Piano Connect (@PianoConnectSA) May 7, 2025
In an earlier interview on the L-Tido Podcast, Scotts described himself as both introverted and extroverted. He said his quiet nature has often been mistaken for pride. But the online criticism seems to have taken an emotional toll. On X (formerly Twitter), he wrote a heartfelt message to both God and his fans, saying, “God, I know I can’t handle it, it’s too much. But I believe You have never forsaken me. I’m Your son, and I come to You.”
God, I know I can’t handle it, it’s too much. But I believe You have never forsaken me. I’m Your son, and I come to You.❤️ pic.twitter.com/gjBvaNRDl0
— Real Scotts Maphuma (@RealScotts_M) May 6, 2025
He also opened up about how fame has affected his personal life. “I can’t spend every minute of my life being Scotts Maphuma. When am I going to be normal again? You go to the mall to buy shoes, and suddenly it becomes a photo session. People don’t understand that sometimes I’m tired or not in the mood, and that doesn’t make me a bad person.”
Scotts Maphuma speaks on fans always asking him for pictures and how he can’t live a private life anymore. pic.twitter.com/CBCJTBpxSS
— Piano Connect (@PianoConnectSA) March 29, 2025
Despite not winning at the 2025 Metro FM Music Awards, Scotts expressed gratitude and hope for the future. “Though I didn’t walk away with a win at #MMA2025, I’m proud to have stood among such brilliant minds. Big congratulations to all the winners. My time is coming.”
Whether you like me or not. I don’t give a damn. I’m here to grow, show up, and stay true to myself. Congrats again to the #MMA2025 winners. My time is coming. https://t.co/gV3MwrIjJB
— Real Scotts Maphuma (@RealScotts_M) May 4, 2025
His honest apology and emotional messages have sparked mixed reactions—while some fans continue to criticise him, others have shown support and appreciation for his vulnerability.
