Sizwe Dhlomo Refuses to Play Shebeshxt and R. Kelly on Kaya FM

Radio host and media personality Sizwe Dhlomo has once again sparked online debate after making it clear that there are two artists whose music will never be played on his Kaya FM show — Shebeshxt and R. Kelly.

The outspoken presenter, who hosts the popular SizTheWorld Breakfast Show on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., shared his views in response to fans questioning his song choices on social media. Known for his direct and unapologetic communication style, Sizwe Dhlomo didn’t hesitate to set the record straight about the kind of music he chooses to broadcast.

The controversy began on Tuesday, 11 November 2025, when an X (formerly Twitter) user asked Sizwe Dhlomo why he never plays R. Kelly’s music. The fan’s comment came after fellow musician Prince Kaybee had posted praise for the American R&B artist, whose work remains highly controversial due to his criminal convictions.

Sizwe Dhlomo Also Rejects Shebeshxt’s Music on Kaya FM

In typical Dhlomo fashion, his response was short and sharp:

“We don’t play R. Kelly.”

While Sizwe Dhlomo didn’t elaborate further, his comment aligns with the stance of several radio networks worldwide that have permanently removed R. Kelly’s music from their playlists following his sexual abuse and trafficking convictions.

Stations in the U.S., U.K., and South Africa have distanced themselves from the disgraced artist in recent years, emphasizing that broadcasting his songs would contradict their values of respect and accountability.

Dhlomo’s decision reflects both a personal and ethical choice, showing that his platform will not be used to promote individuals with documented histories of abuse.

Just a day after the R. Kelly discussion, another social media user asked Sizwe Dhlomo whether he would consider playing music by Shebeshxt, the controversial South African rapper known for his brash lyrics and legal troubles.

Dhlomo’s reply was equally firm — a simple “No.”

Although he did not expand on his reasons, many fans interpreted the response as a reflection of his growing concern about ethics and accountability in the entertainment industry. Shebeshxt, who has faced both criticism and praise for his raw, unfiltered music style, remains a divisive figure in South African pop culture.

As expected, Dhlomo’s blunt rejection set off a heated debate online, with social media users quickly taking sides.

Following his comments, Sizwe Dhlomo trended across X and other platforms as fans debated whether he was taking a stand for moral integrity or simply being selective about who he chooses to exclude.

Some users accused him of being “too judgmental”, suggesting that as a radio host, his role is to cater to listeners’ preferences rather than impose personal opinions. Others, however, praised Dhlomo for standing firm, saying his ethical consistency deserves respect in an industry often criticized for overlooking misconduct in favor of popularity.

One user commented, “People need to understand that Sizwe Dhlomo runs his show with integrity. He’s not here to glorify abusers or toxic figures.”

Another argued, “If you’re banning R. Kelly, then you should also stop playing songs from other artists with bad histories. Where do you draw the line?”

The debate quickly expanded into a broader discussion about cancel culture, accountability, and how media platforms should handle artists accused or convicted of serious crimes.

Sizwe Dhlomo has long been known for his strong opinions and unfiltered commentary, both on-air and online. As one of the most recognizable voices in South African broadcasting, he has earned a reputation for being both principled and controversial.

Before joining Kaya FM, Dhlomo worked at several major radio and television networks, building a career defined by professionalism and a refusal to compromise his beliefs. His breakfast show, SizTheWorld, is celebrated for its mix of music, social discussion, and sharp analysis of current affairs.

Dhlomo has repeatedly stated that his role as a broadcaster comes with responsibility — not only to entertain but also to reflect ethical and cultural values that align with his audience.

The Sizwe Dhlomo debate highlights an ongoing question in the entertainment industry: Should art be separated from the artist? While some argue that good music should stand on its own, others believe that playing songs by artists with criminal or abusive pasts normalizes their behavior.

For Dhlomo, it seems the answer is clear — values come first. By taking a stance against playing music by both R. Kelly and Shebeshxt, he reinforces his belief that radio platforms should reflect integrity, not controversy.

As social media discussions continue, one thing remains evident: Sizwe Dhlomo has once again proven that he’s not afraid to speak his mind, even when it sparks disagreement. His choices may divide opinion, but they also set an example of accountability in an industry where silence is often the easier path.

Source-Fakaza