South African rapper Emtee has left fans deeply worried after a disturbing video surfaced showing him seemingly blacking out and falling asleep in the middle of a live performance. What was expected to be a high-energy set quickly turned into a moment of shock, prompting intense discussion online about the artist’s health, wellbeing, and future in music.
The incident occurred on 16 December 2025 during the fourth annual Abidoza One Man Show at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville. Emtee, best known for hits such as *Roll Up*, was scheduled to perform at midnight. However, footage recorded by a concertgoer and later shared on TikTok captured an unsettling scene that has since gone viral.
In the video, Emtee appears disoriented on stage, struggling to stay awake while performing some of his popular songs. At several points, the rapper can be seen standing with his eyes closed, swaying and fighting to keep his balance as he holds the microphone. He occasionally rubs his eyes and appears to drift off mid-song, raising alarm among those watching both at the venue and online.
The rapper was not alone on stage. A hype woman repeatedly attempted to energise him and help him refocus, while two security guards stood nearby to manage crowd control. Despite these efforts, Emtee seemed unable to fully regain his composure. Even members of the security team appeared visibly uncomfortable as the performance continued.
As clips from the show spread rapidly across social media, fans reacted with a mix of heartbreak, frustration, and concern. Many expressed sadness at seeing the once-dominant hip-hop star in such a vulnerable state, while others questioned the management around him and whether he is receiving adequate support.
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Speculation about the cause of the incident quickly followed. Some social media users suggested substance abuse, although Emtee has previously denied using drugs and has publicly stated that he is sober. Others raised the possibility of extreme exhaustion, mental health struggles, or undisclosed medical issues, urging the public not to jump to conclusions.
The comment sections became a reflection of divided public opinion. While some fans defended the rapper and called for compassion, others criticised what they perceived as a pattern of troubling behaviour over the years. Several supporters questioned whether Emtee still has a reliable team guiding his career and protecting his wellbeing.
This incident comes amid ongoing uncertainty about Emtee’s future in the music industry. In recent months, the rapper has hinted that he may be considering stepping away from music altogether. He has suggested that he has more important matters to focus on and has even alluded to the possibility of releasing a final album before retiring.
For now, the viral performance has reignited conversations about the pressures faced by artists, particularly in the spotlight, and the importance of mental and physical health support. Fans continue to hope that Emtee addresses the incident directly and prioritises his wellbeing, whether that means taking a break from performing or seeking professional help.
As the debate continues, one thing remains clear: many supporters are less concerned about music and more worried about the man behind the microphone.
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