Gloves off between Tira and Big Nuz
Tira, Mampintsha in jealousy and theft of artists beef
Gloves are off between gqom music heavyweights DJ Tira and his protégé Mampintsha of Big Nuz.
The drama started when DJ Tira, whose real name is Mthokozisi Khathi, announced that he will no longer manage Big Nuz, which he introduced to the music scene through his label Afrotainment.
News of their separation has since escalated to accusations and counter-accusations of jealousy and artist theft.
Mampintsha, real name Mandla Maphumulo, told Durban-based Igagasi FM on Tuesday that Khathi was an artist thief. He accused him of stealing and signing artists which are trained by his dance company West Ink.
Maphumulo said Tira had also been signing dancers after he saw West Ink’s recipe, which worked well with singer Babes Wodumo.
Speaking to Sowetan yesterday, Khathi refuted the claims, saying Maphumulo was jealous as he had signed a “hit factory” in newcomer singer and dancer Tipcee.
“I guess he didn’t like me having dancers and launching Tipcee ... I’m not copying his company style. I’m just continuing with life and I think I did very well this past December.
“I was the most booked artist. My song came third on Ukhozi FM’s Song of the Year,” Khathi said.
He added that he did not feel bad about the break-up as the group had been managing itself since October.
“I just preferred them to handle their management as we were no longer working close together,” he said.
However, the spokesman for West Ink, Khulekani Ntshangase, said they were still prepared to work with Khathi in future projects.
Meanwhile fellow Big Nuz member Danger said he was busy with his own record label. “At the moment I am focused on my company, 108 Entertainment, which will be launched soon.”