Rising Singer Aphiwe Naledi Apologises For Mthandeni Summer Experience Incident
It was everything but a positive beginning to the year for rising singer-songwriter Aphiwe Naledi, who recently had an evening to forget at the Mthandeni Summer Experience held from the 4th of January 2025 at Mkhaliphi Stadium. The show was headlined by acts such as MaWhoo, uGatsheni, and Mthandeni SK.
What started as a joyous celebration of the different spectrums of the maskandi movement and culture as showcased in the music was marred by the controversy of Aphiwe finding herself caught in the crossfire of a displeased and violent audience.
While Gatsheni was still performing his heart out for the crowd, the “Shooter” songwriter, fresh from performing alongside Amercian superstar Chris Brown during his Breezy in Joburg concerts, made her way onstage and gatecrashed Gatsheni’s performance with her own song.
The furious spectators not only began to express their unanimous disapproval by booing the 18-year-old, they also started hurling bottles and cans at her.
The young songstress released a statement apologising to Mthandeni and the event organisers for her conduct, while expressing her thankfulness to them for giving her leeway to strut her stuff before the crowd.
“Firstly, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to Mthandeni and his incredible team for providing me with the platform to perform and connect with his supporters. I understand the importance of the opportunity and I truly appreciate the support that has been extended to me,” said Naledi via the statement.
She also singled out Gatsheni and his team, offering her apologies for her interjection.
“I also want to offer a heart apology to Gatsheni and his team. It was never my intention to cause any disruption or disrespect, especially to such a respected and established artist in the Maskandi community. I acknowledge that my actions were inconsiderate, and I deeply regret the way I conducted myself on stage. I respect the values of this community, and I will take this time to reflect on my actions and ensure that I grow as an artist and individual moving forward,” she said.
Gatsheni was gracious enough to end the matter amicably, accepting her apology on a Facebook post as well as offering her words of kindness and consolation.
“Apology accepted. Your future is bright, and I wish you all the best. I wish it may be well with your Matric results. You will go very far in music. I would be happy if you continued making hits. All the best of luck [SIC]. People love your music,” Gatsheni said, his translated words written in Zulu.