Emtee Faces Backlash After Falling Asleep Mid-Performance
South African rapper Emtee (Mthembeni Ndevu) has issued a public apology after video clips of him seemingly dozing off on stage during a Pretoria show went viral, sparking disappointment among fans.
The incident occurred on December 16, Reconciliation Day, when Emtee was performing at five venues across the country in one day, a schedule his team described as ambitious, but one that evidently took a toll.
The Apology and Explanation
In a statement released on December 18, eMtee Records acknowledged the performance fell short of fans’ expectations.
“Following an exceptionally busy summer season with back-to-back shows, eMtee had an ambitious schedule on December 16, performing at five venues—a testament to his dedication to connecting with fans. Unfortunately, the demanding pace took its toll, and fatigue impacted his ability to deliver the high-energy show our fans expect in Pretoria,” the statement read.
Emtee added that he recognized the disappointment caused and expressed gratitude for fans’ understanding. To make amends, he announced a follow-up show in Pretoria aimed at delivering the performance fans felt they missed.
@realemteethehustla I just got off stage at the DJ knockout in Vaal, what an energy you gave me🙏 #emtee #dabighustle ♬ original sound – eMtee the Hustla
Fans Share Mixed Reactions
Social media was quick to weigh in. Many fans expressed frustration, with comments like:
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“Every year, Emtee is apologising for something.” – @lerato_mokhuoane
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“That was not fatigue though, bro needs discipline. We all know what it was.” – @stevitano_wavybaby
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“You keep on disappointing your favs, it’s not even funny anymore.” – @tlhapi_manando_nthunya
Others expressed sympathy, understanding the toll of performing multiple shows in one day, especially during a busy season.
The Vaal-Pretoria Contrast
The incident drew further scrutiny because Emtee had performed earlier that day in Vaal, where videos showed him energetic and fully engaged with the crowd. Fans found it perplexing that he could deliver such a lively performance in one city but struggle to stay awake in the next.
This contrast fueled online debates about tour fatigue, professionalism, and artist management, with some questioning whether scheduling should prioritize fan experience over sheer output.
@zoromilano6 Emtee sleeping while performing #Emtee #fyp ♬ original sound – Zoro Milano
Making It Right
Despite the criticism, Emtee has committed to a second Pretoria performance, promising fans an “unforgettable show” to make up for the incident. It’s a chance to rebuild trust and remind audiences why he remains one of South Africa’s leading rap artists.
The episode serves as a reminder of the grueling demands of touring and the delicate balance artists must strike between connecting with fans and managing personal well-being. For Emtee, the road to redemption is clear: show up, energized, and deliver the performance fans have been eagerly waiting for.
Source: IOL
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