Gqom queen Babes Wodumo, whose real name is Bongekile Simelane, is facing a crossroads in her career.
The once-dominant force in the South African music scene is now seeking to reclaim her former glory after a tumultuous period marked by scandal and the loss of her husband, Mampintsha.
The venue was packed with fans who had travelled from near and far, eager to see the Gqom queen perform.
According to ZiMOJA, guests, including media personality Kea Mofolo, expressed their disappointment, noting they waited until midnight before giving up hope. Fans had hoped for an explanation on social media but received none.
The venue owner, Moss, expressed his disappointment over Babes Wodumo’s absence, noting it tarnished the venue’s reputation for reliability.
“It’s not a good look for us as a venue. We have built trust amongst our patrons and they know we only aim to deliver the best. But it’s disheartening when an artist doesn’t show up,” Moss told the publication.
The publication reported that Nondu Simelane, Babes Wodumo's mother and manager, apologised for the no-show, explaining that transportation issues from Durban prevented them from attending. However, this explanation has been met with skepticism by many, who point to the fact that Babes Wodumo recently held a listening session for her new music project on Instagram.
This EP marks Babes Wodumo's first project since the passing of her late husband, Mampintsha, and it seems the singer is eager to move forward with her career. In an interview with TshisaLIVE, Babes discussed the Uthando Lodumo show, her music and her life after Mampintsha’s death.
Babes Wodumo has reportedly turned to renowned music promoter Dogg DBN, whose real name is Lindo Buthelezi, for assistance in reviving her struggling career. Dogg DBN, known for his massive collaborations with other South African musicians like Thukzin whom he helped to rise to prominence, is believed to be a trusted confidant for Babes in her difficult journey.
"Babes Wodumo realised she needed serious help. After the death of her husband, Mampintsha, she was left frustrated. Mampintsha was instrumental in launching her career and ensuring it thrived. His absence has led her to approach Dogg DBN for support," a source explained.
Another source revealed that Babes, who, in addition to being a musician, is also a reality TV star, is not just sitting back for things to happen automatically.
"She is a strong woman. She detests pity, but pride alone is of little help. That's why she sought assistance. She has faith in Dogg DBN, having previously worked with Mampintsha," the source added.
Dogg DBN, in a bid to help Babes Wodumo return to her former glory, took to Facebook to ask music fans for ideas that could help the singer make a drastic comeback.
Many fans expressed their dissatisfaction with how her sister, Nondumiso Simelane, manages Babes. Some even accused Nondumiso of ruining the Wololo hitmaker’s career, calling her unprofessional.
One of the Facebook users, Meluleki Ngcobo, said: "Isistera (her sister) needs to be professional first. Having your sister/relative/partner as a manager doesn't normally work out. She has had many setbacks lately due to this and she needs to understand that too. She needs a good PR team."
Mxolisi Khanyile wrote: “She should get new management with fresh ideas.”
Others suggested that Babes Wodumo must change her gqom style.
Advocate Minenhle Ngubane suggested: "UBabes must stop singing imilolozelo. We want something new, good music. And she must fix her management. Pleasure and business don't mix."
When asked about the music fans' suggestions, Nondumiso said that it was their opinion.
"Babes is my sister and I can do anything for her. If they think that there's a better manager for her, it's their opinion," said Nondumiso.
Dogg Dbn said that he asked for suggestions just to help Babes Wodumo's talent not die."I found the opinions constructive and I'll communicate with her," said Dogg Dbn.
Babes Wodumo said she didn’t see the post or any suggestions.
"I can't comment on something that I didn't see," said Babes Wodumo.
The comments from fans and the recent no-show at Amigo’s Bar and Grill highlight the challenges Babes Wodumo faces as she attempts to rebuild her career.
Whether she heeds the advice of her fans and makes the necessary changes remains to be seen.
