Inkabi Records is facing criticism over its public statement about Lwah Ndlunkulu’s health and its response to allegations about the singer’s relationship with the label.
Inkabi Records has come under fire following its public statement about singer Lwah Ndlunkulu's health, with social media users questioning the record label's decision to disclose sensitive personal information while defending itself against allegations of wrongdoing.
The record label, owned by musician Big Zulu, released a statement on Tuesday, November 10, addressing growing speculation about the singer's wellbeing and her relationship with the company.
However, rather than putting the controversy to rest, the statement has sparked further criticism, particularly over its reference to substance use and the disclosure of the singer's reported medical diagnosis.
Social media questions Inkabi Records' decision
In its statement, Inkabi Records confirmed that Ndlunkulu was receiving professional care at a wellness and rehabilitation facility.
The label revealed that, following a doctor's assessment and test results, the singer was experiencing psychosis. It added that she had been receiving medical attention and support over the past two months, with the facility chosen in consultation with her family and the costs covered by the record company.
While the label said it had previously refrained from discussing her personal circumstances out of respect for her privacy, it felt compelled to respond to allegations circulating on social media.
It also rejected suggestions that its conduct had contributed to her health challenges.
"The label’s understanding, informed by its engagement with Lwah and her family, is that her present difficulties are associated with personal circumstances, including concerns related to substance use, and not with any conduct by Inkabi Records," the statement read.
The reference to substance use has particularly divided social media users, with some questioning why the record company felt it necessary to include such sensitive details in a public statement.
One social media user described the statement as "insensitive and reckless", while another accused the label of throwing the singer under the bus by mentioning substance use.
Others questioned whether the statement was intended to protect the singer or defend the company's reputation amid the growing controversy.
Alleged financial disagreements fuel the fallout
The controversy comes amid reports of a strained relationship between Ndlunkulu and Inkabi Records.
During the November 9 episode of "Podcast and Chill", executive producer Duduzile Methula revealed that the singer had allegedly reached out to her privately about her frustrations with the record label.
According to Methula, Ndlunkulu was unhappy with aspects of her professional relationship with the company, with alleged financial disagreements among the issues raised.
She also reportedly expressed an interest in leaving the label and appearing on the podcast to share her side of the story.
The reports have fuelled questions about artist-label relationships, contractual obligations and whether musicians receive fair compensation for their work.
Inkabi Records, however, has maintained that its contractual and financial dealings with Ndlunkulu have been fair and in accordance with the agreements governing their professional relationship.
The company also referenced music executive Dr Sipho Sithole, Ndlunkulu's grandfather, saying he had been familiar with the contractual arrangements from the early stages of her career.
Big Zulu defends Inkabi Records
Big Zulu has also entered the conversation, defending his record company against suggestions that artists signed to Inkabi Records have been exploited or inadequately compensated.
During a TikTok Live, the rapper pointed to the material achievements of artists who have worked with the label, including Ndlunkulu, Mduduzi Ncube and Ntaba Yase Dubai.
He cited houses and cars acquired by the musicians during their time with the company as evidence of the opportunities and financial benefits they had received.
His defence, however, has opened another debate about whether an artist's visible lifestyle is an accurate reflection of the financial arrangements behind their music.
The discussion has also revived conversations about Mduduzi Ncube's departure from Inkabi Records and his reported grievances concerning royalties.
On Wednesday, Big Zulu reportedly went further, saying he no longer wished to sign artists to the label, although he remained willing to help musicians without formal recording agreements.
Lwah Ndlunkulu yet to publicly address the controversy
While Inkabi Records has provided its version of events, Ndlunkulu has not publicly responded to the latest statement or independently addressed the allegations surrounding her professional relationship with the label.
The singer's health remains a sensitive matter, with the record company asking the public to respect her privacy as she receives professional care.
For now, the controversy has developed into a wider conversation about artist welfare, financial transparency and the responsibility record companies have towards the musicians whose careers they help build.