"WHEN I say I'm living in forced exile from my own industry, this is what it looks like."
These were the words of Mzansi music star Latoya Nontokozo Buthelezi, known as Toya Delazy.
She is the grandchild to the late traditional prime minister and IFP founder Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
Toya revealed that industry gatekeeping forced her to relocate to London, despite her successful career.
The 36-year-old star said she has been experimenting with a sound she calls AfroRave. This blends electronic beats and Zulu lyrics. But she claims Mzansi music industry repeatedly shuts doors on her and her collaborators.
She moved to London in 2017 to pursue her career independently.
This was after parting ways with her record label and launching her own company.
Toya is known for hit songs, including Pump It On, Love Is in the Air, Are You Gonna Stay? and later a single Funani.
Radio drama
She shared a recent example on social media:
"I recorded my first Gqom track with @Mfumfanakagogo. A presenter asked Mfu to submit it for a Gqom segment on @gagasifm. The song fit the genre perfectly, but once they saw my name, it was declined. The reason given: ‘doesn't fit radio format.' That's silent exclusion."
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She explained that these closed doors affect collaborators too. Artists start wondering if working with her will cost them airplay or income.
Toya said she has invested in her music videos and sent them to platforms, but the silence continues.
"I'm not sharing this to attack anyone. I'm documenting a pattern I've experienced for over a decade. When I say I'm living in forced exile from my own industry, this is what it looks like."
Industry is toxic
She said the industry has shown no respect despite her contributions.
She said this treatment is an insult to black ingenuity, black women, and her Zulu royal heritage.
Toya also said many artists have been pushed into suicide. She claims issues like slave contracts, payola, and blocking local competitors remain a problem in the Mzansi music scene.
"I still can't get any new music on radio - it's been over 13 years now. Leaving South Africa was not a choice, it was a necessity. Music is my livelihood."
Gagasi FM response to allegations
Gagasi FM spokesman Khulekani Shandu told Daily Sun all songs submitted to Gagasi FM go through the music committee for evaluation.
"This process applies to all songs submitted, it's not something unique with any individual song or artist. The very existence of a music committee ensures that there is no bias, all submissions are treated the same," he said.
