Zakes Bantwini has responded firmly to claims made by Nota Baloyi, addressing suggestions that the outspoken industry figure played a significant role in shaping his career.
The exchange unfolded on social media after Nota shared a throwback video featuring himself and Kwesta. In the post, he reflected on his influence over the past decade, boldly crediting himself with inspiring a new wave of artists and defining their musical style.
“This was me 10 years ago… Still in the same shape a decade later. I put all these guys on & gave these kids a style to run with. From Zakes Bantwini to Scotts Maphuma, they all got it from NOTA. Then I went corp-corner office & never looked back. I fathered you, like it or not!” he wrote.
The statement quickly drew attention, with many fans and industry observers debating the accuracy of his claims. However, it was Zakes Bantwini himself who stepped in to clarify the narrative, offering a response that combined humour with a firm correction of the timeline.
Zakes Bantwini challenges narrative with career timeline
In his reply, Zakes Bantwini pointed out that his career was already well established long before Nota entered the music industry. Using specific milestones, he dismantled the suggestion that his success was influenced by Nota, instead arguing that the timeline tells a very different story.
“Hhayi Nota kanjani manje 😂😂😂 I had a decade on you,” Bantwini wrote, highlighting the gap in their respective journeys.
He went on to explain that while influence is a natural part of artistic growth, it does not align with Nota’s version of events. “You may have watched and learned from me, not the other way around which is fine, that’s how growth works,” he added.
To reinforce his point, Bantwini referenced key moments in his career. He noted that he founded Mayonie Productions at a time when Nota was still a teenager, and had already begun developing other artists early on. Among those was Lvovo, whose career Bantwini helped launch.
“You were 14 when I opened Mayonie Productions and 16 when I released my first artist Lvovo,” he explained, offering a clear timeline that challenges Nota’s claims.
Bantwini also highlighted his experience within the corporate side of the music industry, noting his role in artists and repertoire (A&R) and his involvement in establishing a music imprint. He revealed that he was already working at Sony Music Africa when Nota submitted music for consideration.
“I was already A&R at Sony Africa when you submitted Ngud to us at Sound African Recording, the imprint I co-founded at Sony back in 2015/16,” he said.
The response underscored Bantwini’s long-standing presence in the industry and his contributions both as an artist and behind the scenes. By outlining his career trajectory, he made it clear that his influence predates Nota’s involvement in the space.
Despite the firm tone, Bantwini maintained a level of respect and composure throughout his response. He acknowledged Nota’s role in the industry while urging him not to distort the facts.
“Influence flows downstream, not up, brother 😂,” he remarked, using humour to drive home his point. “Big respect to you genuinely, but the timeline tells the real story—just don’t rewrite history, brother.”
He concluded his message on a conciliatory note, emphasising that there was no animosity on his part. “But it’s all love this side, let’s not do this, or at least not like this,” he added.
The exchange has sparked widespread discussion within the music community, with fans weighing in on issues of influence, legacy, and recognition in the industry. While debates over who shaped whom are not uncommon, this particular interaction highlights the importance of context and accurate timelines when reflecting on artistic contributions.
For Zakes Bantwini, the moment served as an opportunity to reaffirm his legacy and clarify his role in shaping South African music. His response not only addressed the claims directly but also reinforced the value of experience and authenticity in an industry where narratives can sometimes become blurred.
As the conversation continues, the incident stands as a reminder that while influence is often shared and interconnected, history remains a critical reference point—one that artists like Bantwini are keen to preserve.
