The future of award-winning Kwaito and Gqom group Big Nuz hangs in the balance as the remaining member, Danger, real name Mzingisi Tshomela, expresses his growing unhappiness with DJ Tira's label, Afrotainment.
Since the passing of R. Mashesha and Mampintsha, the group's dynamic has shifted dramatically, leaving Danger feeling lost and uncertain about his future.
Sources close to the situation reveal that Danger has been unhappy at Afrotainment since the deaths of his two fellow members, Mandla 'Mampintsha' Maphumulo, who passed away two years ago, and R-Mashesha, real name Sibusiso Khumo, who died in 2015.
The group's success story, which saw them rise to prominence with hits like "Umlilo" and "Superman" from their 2009 album "Undisputed," now seems like a distant memory.
"He asked DJ Tira to release him from his contract," said a source, highlighting the growing tension between Danger and the label head. Another source revealed that the relationship between the two is strained, with Danger feeling neglected and unsupported.
"It does not seem like DJ Tira is interested in Big Nuz anymore without the other members who are no more," said the source.
"The group brought a lot of money to Afrotainment since the 2009 album 'Undisputed' with the hit songs 'Umlilo' and 'Superman'. Today DJ Tira has forgotten about all that. He doesn't have time for Danger because the outspoken member, Mampintsha, is no more."
In an effort to keep the group alive, Danger has been performing with fellow Kwaito singer, Bhar, a co-founder of Big Nuz. However, according to sources, this collaboration hasn't been the solution Danger hoped for, further fueling his desire to leave Afrotainment.
Despite the challenges, Danger hasn't given up on his music career. He has been recording with different upcoming Gqom artists, hoping to revive his career and find new opportunities.
"He has been recording with some unknown artists. The man is frustrated that he doesn't know what to do anymore. He needs to make money and there are no gigs coming in. He has a family to support but it's tough for Danger," said a source.
"It's not like DJ Tira has not done anything for Danger. In 2018, DJ Tira featured in Danger's solo project 'Dangerous', but the song was not well received by the fans of Big Nuz," said the source.
The situation highlights the complex dynamics within the music industry, particularly when dealing with the loss of key members of a group. It remains to be seen whether Danger will be able to find a way to revive his career and whether Big Nuz will continue to exist without its founding members.
Danger declined to comment on the matter, while DJ Tira did not respond to our calls and WhatsApp messages.
