Amapiano vocalist and entertainer Leehleza has found himself at the centre of a heated social media storm after firing back at outspoken music critic Nota Baloyi over criticism of his hit song Tobetsa 3.0. What began as a debate about explicit lyrics and social responsibility has quickly escalated into a personal and viral feud that has sharply divided the online community.
The controversy erupted after a video surfaced on 15 January 2026 showing several schoolchildren singing along to Tobetsa 3.0. While many fans found the clip amusing and a sign of the song’s popularity, Nota Baloyi strongly disagreed. Taking to social media and a recent podcast appearance, Nota condemned the track’s explicit lyrics, arguing that the song was wholly inappropriate for young listeners.
The critic did not mince his words. In a scathing post, Nota accused Leehleza of harming society, writing:
“Murderer of the nation, @leehlezaUmshove, you’ll sweat off the weight in hell, you demon!”
The remarks immediately sparked outrage and debate online. Some users backed Nota, arguing that artists should be more mindful of the impact their lyrics have on impressionable audiences. Others rushed to Leehleza’s defence, insisting that music consumption is the responsibility of parents and that artists should not be blamed for how their work is interpreted or shared.
As Leehleza began trending, it became clear he was not prepared to stay silent. In response to Nota’s criticism, the Umshove hitmaker delivered a sharp and personal clap back:
“If you want motivational songs, go and listen to your ex-wife’s album.”
The comment referenced Nota’s former marriage to Zimbabwean singer Gugulethu “Berita” Khumalo, whose music is often praised for its uplifting Afro-soul and Afro-jazz sound. While Berita herself was not part of the exchange, Leehleza’s remark was widely viewed as a deliberate jab at Nota’s personal life rather than a defence of his music.
The response followed earlier comments Nota made on 13 January during the Piano Pulse Podcast, where he dismissed Leehleza’s songs as “nonsense” and accused the artist of “poisoning the community with his lyrics.” By bringing Nota’s failed marriage into the discussion, Leehleza shifted the narrative from musical ethics to a deeply personal feud, leaving social media users stunned.
Ironically, many observers believe the backlash may have only fueled Tobetsa 3.0’s viral momentum, drawing even more attention to the song. While some see Leehleza’s clap back as crossing a line, others view it as the artist’s breaking point after sustained criticism.
As the debate rages on, the clash highlights ongoing tensions in the music industry between creative freedom, social responsibility, and the power of controversy in driving popularity.
If you want motivational songs . Go nd Listen To Your Ex wife Album .
Msunu wenja!!! https://t.co/pNKbYhdNyp
— Leehleza The Entertainer (@leehlezaUmshove) January 15, 2026
