By OBAKENG MAJE
30 December 2025- Itsoseng Delicious event organisers have chastised Amapiano singer, Babalwa Mavuso, who is affectionately known as Babalwa M after fallout. This comes after Babalwa M refused to perform at the event on 26 December 2026, after allegedly making irrational demands.
According to the statement released by the Itsoseng Delicious event organisers, Babalwa M failed to perform at the scheduled gig after disputes over new demands prior to ascending to the stage.
“Looks Lounge would like to address the unfortunate situation regarding a scheduled artist, Babalwa M’s performance at the Itsoseng Delicious event on 26 December 2025. An artist was booked to perform at 5pm. However, she arrived approximately one hour and 30 minutes late.
“Despite this delay, the event organisers remained accommodating and continued preparations for the performance as the crowd was excited and ready,” the statement said.
The promoters further said, however, when it was time for Babalwa M to take to the stage, additional demands were made on-site for performance riders (alcoholic beverages) that had not been requested or agreed upon prior to the event. They added that they had already provided hospitality, including Hennessy VS, followed by Hennessy VSOP in good faith.
“Despite this, further demands were made for two bottles of Veuve with the condition that she would not perform without them. Attempts were made to resolve the matter amicably, but the artist declined to proceed with the performance unless these new demands were met.
“As a result, the artist’s decision was to cancel her performance. With her intentions of no longer willing to perform, the organisers requested a refund of a booking fee, which was done in full before the artist’s departure from the event,” the promoters said.
The promoters have since sincerely apologised to the patrons and supporters who attended the event, specifically to those who were looking forward to Babalawa M’s performance.
However, Babalwa M came out guns blazing and accused the promoters of disrespecting her.
“My decision not to proceed with the performance was not based on performance riders or alcohol demands as suggested. I have performed at numerous venues with incorrect performance riders or no riders at all.
“I have always chosen professionalism over inconvenience when the engagement is handled with utmost respect. Unfortunately, in this instance, the situation deteriorated due to unprofessionalism, disrespect and aggressive conduct from the promoters on-site,” she said.
Babalwa M said she was subjected to rudeness, swearing and verbal abuse, including being called ‘crazy’ by one of the promoters. She said under those circumstances, it became impossible to continue in a safer, respectful and professional environment.
“I would also like to clarify that I did not charge my full performance fee and had already agreed to a discount in good faith. The additional alcohol bottle referenced in the statement was provided by my DJ’s friend, not by the venue or promoters.
“Basic hospitality, including water, was not offered to me or my team. As an artist and a professional, I believe that mutual respect is non-negotiable. Just as one would not continue a transaction in a store where they are treated badly, I could not proceed with a performance after being disrespected,” said Babalwa M.
She said her decision to leave the venue was the result of preventing further confrontation and to protect her well-being. Babalwa M said she remains committed to professionalism, respect for the audience and positive working relationships.
The Guardian 