DJ Sbu Breaks Silence on Zahara's Passing and Addresses Exploitation Claims
DJ Sbu, also known as Sbusiso Leope, has spoken out for the first time following the tragic passing of Zahara. The media personality, who was previously in a business partnership with TK Nciza, has faced accusations of exploiting Zahara during her time under their record label, TS Records.
In an interview with the SABC on Wednesday morning, DJ Sbu expressed his shock and heartbreak, " I'm heartbroken like everyone else."
Addressing the allegations against him and Nciza, who is now the ANC Gauteng provincial secretary, DJ Sbu defended their working relationship with Zahara. "We started working with her in 2011, and I would like South Africans to remember her as one of the most talented singers we've ever had in this country," he said.
During Zahara's tenure with TS Records from 2011 to 2016, both DJ Sbu and Nciza have been accused of exploiting her. However, DJ Sbu emphasized the positive aspects of their collaboration, stating, "We had great work together, we had great moments. I was like a bigger brother to her; she was like my younger sister."
Acknowledging the public's anger and desire to assign blame, DJ Sbu recognized the criticisms directed towards him. He expressed his willingness to accept the public's grievances, saying, "As the bigger brother, I will take all of your cries, all of your complaints."
Back in 2019, Zahara spoke out about the partners' alleged failure to pay her what she was owed. Nciza responded to her claims, stating, "Now that things are going bad, she wants to make an excuse and point fingers."
DJ Sbu confirmed that Zahara owned her music and that all royalties went directly to her. However, he explained that he couldn't disclose what would happen to her royalties, as she was not signed under him. He encouraged Zahara's record company, Warner, to provide further information on the matter.
Reflecting on Zahara's impact, DJ Sbu praised her musical talent and the success of her debut album, "Lolilwe," which achieved double platinum status in just 17 days. He described her as a star whose songs resonated in households and cars across South Africa.
DJ Sbu visited Zahara's home on Tuesday, following African customs and traditions. He confirmed that a memorial service would be held at Rhema Bible Church in Randburg on Thursday, and her final resting place would be in the Eastern Cape, her birthplace, with the funeral scheduled for December 23, two days before Christmas.
