The long-simmering tension between DJ Maphorisa and Nota Baloyi has erupted into a full-blown social media war, with both industry figures trading sharp words over royalties linked to the hit song Ngud by Kwesta featuring Cassper Nyovest. What began as a financial query has quickly spiralled into personal attacks, bruised egos, and public airing of long-standing grievances.
The drama reignited on Sunday, 18 January 2026, when DJ Maphorisa publicly questioned Nota about unpaid royalties for Ngud. The producer’s comment reopened an old wound, placing the spotlight back on ownership, compensation, and unresolved disputes surrounding the song.
Nota Baloyi, a former music executive known for his outspoken online presence, responded with a mix of explanation and what many interpreted as condescension. While claiming to support Maphorisa, Nota offered unsolicited advice and suggested that he had played a key role in Phori’s rise in the industry.
“Don’t drop the ball, champ. Eye on the prize. Keep the main thing the main, who wants you to win more than me? Nobody, not by a long shot. I put you on game, never forget that!” Nota wrote.
The message did not sit well with DJ Maphorisa. In a fiery response, the Amapiano star unleashed a scathing rant, accusing Nota of being a failed record label owner who has burned bridges throughout the South African music industry. Phori questioned why he should take advice from someone he believes has repeatedly failed in business.
“Start to do things. Be a doer more than a talker, make money, bro. You failed way too much,” Maphorisa fired back. He went on to list Nota’s alleged failures, from a collapsed record label to strained relationships with artists, arguing that these missteps disqualified him from offering guidance.
The producer also expressed anger over Nota’s comments about local gigs, accusing him of undermining South African promoters and outlets. “You forgot that I am a support system,” Phori said, defending his role in uplifting local platforms. He added that he had spoken to Sha Sha, who allegedly confirmed that money had been made from Ngud, before dismissively telling Nota to “keep it.”
Doubling down, DJ Maphorisa boasted about his international success, citing sold-out stadium shows and global recognition. “I’m doing well internationally, we just sold out a stadium, what more do I want?” he wrote, also rejecting claims that he operates under major label distribution.
The explosive exchange has once again highlighted deep fractures within the music industry, as fans watch two influential figures clash publicly over money, legacy, and respect.
Start to do things be a doer more then a talker, make money bro
U failed way too much u had a record label u flopped u dnt have relationship anymore with people/artist that means no net worth
U had a deal with orchards u failed why should i take your advice
U crossed the… https://t.co/XyJv2GE3Bx
— MadMoney (@DjMaphorisa) January 19, 2026
