Rising music sensation Scotts Maphuma has found himself at the center of controversy after outspoken YouTuber Slik Talk criticized him for being disrespectful toward his fans. The online commentator, known for his no-filter approach, didn’t hold back in his assessment of Maphuma’s attitude, stating that the artist’s behavior was unacceptable for someone still on the rise.
Slik Talk’s comments were blunt:
“Every video that I see of him makes me dislike him even more, and he goes by the name of Scotts Maphuma. Scotts Maphuma’s attitude is a major issue. Your music is not good enough to be acting the way you are acting, to be treating people the way you are treating them. You haven’t made it to a point where you think you can disrespect people and get away with it. This guy is not even googlable… You are not at a point where you can start acting arrogant and treating people like Kanye West. Every video I see, he is disrespecting people.”
Following the harsh critique, Maphuma quickly took to social media to respond, making it clear that he is struggling with the pressures of fame. He shared an emotional post addressing his frustrations with the expectations that come with being a public figure.
“This is the last time I give attention to this, I swear. I can’t be loved by everyone. I can’t deal with the fact that my life can’t be private anymore. You can’t even go to the mall and buy a pair of shoes, which is what I did for years. But now I have to think about being asked for pictures, and it’s okay, I don’t mind, it’s just a picture. But I can’t spend every minute of my life being Scotts Maphuma. When am I going to be normal again? Has South Africa thought about that?”
He further expressed frustration at the notion that declining a fan’s request for a picture automatically labels him as rude.
“So if South Africa doesn’t care about us—whether you’re hurt or not in the mood—it could be anything. It’s not like I live in the studio and make music all the time. Why should I always understand that these people are my fans? Why? If you tell a person that today you’re not feeling like taking pictures, all of a sudden you’re rude? So I should give people my time and energy by force just because I’m who I am? I’m sorry, cancel me South Africa. Maybe I’ll be free from you.”
His response has sparked debate among fans and industry insiders, with some sympathizing with his struggles while others believe that engaging with supporters is part of being an artist. The controversy raises an ongoing discussion about fame, personal boundaries, and the pressure artists face to always be available to the public.
