Simphiwe Dana calls out Nomzamo Mbatha and Shaka ILembe for uncredited hair inspo

Posted on July 28, 2025
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Simphiwe Dana/Picture: Instagram

Songstress Simphiwe Dana has garnered some attention from the public after taking to her social media to accuse Nomzamo Mbatha and Shaka iLembe’s hair department of taking some of her hair inspo, but failing to give her credit for it.

Since coming onto South Africa’s music scene during the early 2000s, Simphiwe Dana’s personal style has always been an integral part of her identity as an artist. The singer has consistently highlighted how her style has been a reflection of her roots, and a preservation of an important aspect of heritage.

Similarly to her music, her hairstyles are expressive; they tell a tale of the rich history of African cutlure, and are often characterised by natural, textured hairstyles that are sometimes woven into intricate designs.

In recent months, Shaka iLembe‘s costume department has garnered some attention and applause for their work in accurately portraying some of the small, yet important aspects of the country’s rich history, such as the hairstyles that were donned during the ancient time.

So much so, that the Bomb Productions company snatched the ‘Best Achievement in Makeup and Hairstyling’ award at the 18th edition of the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTA).

However, a frustrated Simphiwe took to her social media to call the popular show out, along with their lead actress Nomzamo Mbatha for failing to give credit where it’s due. According to the Zandisile hitmaker, Shaka iLembe’s signature hairstyles are an integral part of her brand and identity. As such, she believes that the least they can do is acknowledge her for her ideas.

“Honey there’s a difference between appreciation and appropriation. You’re not the only one. I’m fed up. It’s deeply concerting and cringe. At least acknowledge me. Together with the Shaka Ilembe crew,” a now deleted Instagram post read.

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