Singer Babalwa M has spoken out following the controversy surrounding her scheduled performance at the Itsoseng Delicious event on 26 December, firmly rejecting claims that she refused to perform over alcohol demands.
Earlier reports suggested the artist pulled out after her performance riders (alcoholic beverages) were not met. However, in a statement shared publicly, she says this narrative is both misleading and unfair.
“My decision not to proceed with the performance was not based on performance riders or alcohol demands, as suggested,” she said.
She explained that she has performed under far worse logistical conditions and has never allowed minor inconveniences to stop her from delivering for her supporters.
“I have performed at numerous venues with incorrect riders or no riders at all, and I have always chosen professionalism over inconvenience when the engagement is handled respectfully,” she said.
According to the artist, the real issue was the conduct of the promoters on-site, which she describes as hostile and degrading.
“Unfortunately, in this instance, the situation deteriorated due to unprofessional, disrespectful and aggressive conduct from the promoters,” she said. “I was subjected to rudeness, swearing and verbal disrespect, including being called ‘crazy’ by one of the promoters.”
She further dismissed claims that the venue supplied additional alcohol for her performance.
“The additional alcohol bottle referenced was provided by my DJ’s friend, not by the venue or promoters,” she explained. “Basic hospitality, including water, was not offered to myself or my team.”
Babalwa M also revealed that she chose to leave the venue to avoid further conflict and refunded the organisers in full before departing.
“My decision to leave was made to prevent further escalation and to protect my well-being and that of my team,” she said. “It was not taken lightly, nor was it rooted in entitlement or unreasonable demands. I decided to give them their full refund before leaving the venue to avoid further confrontation.”
“I would like to sincerely apologise to my supporters who came out to see me. This incident underscores the importance of respect, professionalism and adherence to contractual agreements within the entertainment industry.”
Meanwhile, the event organisers, Looks Lounge, had issued a contrasting account of events.
“An artist who was booked to perform at 17:00 arrived approximately one hour and 30 minutes later than the agreed time,” the establishment said. “Despite this delay, the organisers remained accommodating as the crowd was present, excited and ready.”
They further alleged that new demands were made shortly before the performance.
“Additional demands were made on-site for performance riders (alcoholic beverages) that had not been requested or agreed upon prior to the event,” the statement read.
“The organisers had already provided hospitality, including Hennessy VS followed by Hennessy VSOP, in good faith,” it continued. “Despite this, further demands were made for two bottles of Veuve, with the condition that the artist would not perform without them.”
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star
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