South African gospel singer Ayanda Ntanzi. Picture: X
Kabza De Small is in the spotlight again and it is not for the star-studded launch of Piano Hub in Soweto. While that event got people talking, with fans reacting to the pricey menu, De Small is now making headlines for a musical controversy.
It is alleged that De Small allegedly remixed “Spirit of Praise”, a song by gospel singer Ayanda Ntanzi, without permission.
Speaking to “TshisaLIVE”, Ntanzi shared how he found out about the remix through social media, stating that fans were calling him to ask about a supposed collaboration with the amapiano star.
To his surprise, he had no prior knowledge of the remix.
“I wasn’t aware of the remix but people started calling me that I’ve collaborated with Kabza De Small, and I was surprised as I know nothing of a collab I did with him,” Ntanzi explained.
“Going on YouTube, I found the remix song. I must say it doesn’t sound bad. I’d have appreciated it if he had the courtesy to ask permission before doing it.”
Ntanzi went on to express that while he does not oppose remixes of his work, he believes that proper communication and respect are important in the industry.
He noted that his team had reached out to De Small’s camp for clarity on the situation but they are still awaiting feedback.
“My team has since reached out to Kabza's camp for clarity on moving forward but we haven't received any reply. It’s about respect, it’s about courtesy, and it’s about good musicianship,” Ntanzi added.
“I would have appreciated him reaching out to me before, rather than seeing myself on the trending list, and I wouldn’t have said no. I did a remix with DJ Cleo before, and I agreed to work with him,” he concludes.
Issues regarding unauthorised remixes and collaborations are not uncommon. Cassper Nyovest has also been vocal about the need for permission before remixes. In a 2019 interview, he mentioned: “We all need to eat, but let’s not forget where the original came from.”
Additionally, rapper Nasty C emphasised the significance of respect in the music industry during a 2022 interview, stating: “Collaboration is great but respect is key.”