Limpopo-born musician Makhadzi recently stirred up controversy on social media after expressing her frustration over the slow ticket sales for her upcoming concert at Peter Mokaba Stadium. Comparing her situation to that of American singer Chris Brown, Makhadzi’s remarks did not sit well with many of her fans, who took to social media to voice their displeasure.
Makhadzi’s Frustration Over Ticket Sales
On Monday, 7 October, Makhadzi took to X (formerly Twitter) to share her disappointment about the low-ticket sales for her “One Woman Show” at Peter Mokaba Stadium, scheduled for 21 December. In a tweet that quickly went viral, the “Ghanama” hitmaker lamented how long it was taking for her tickets to sell out, contrasting her situation with that of American superstar Chris Brown, whose tickets for his FNB Stadium concert sold out in just two hours.
Makhadzi’s tweet read: “South Africa ke movie (is a movie). So, nna I must take 10 years to sell out Peter Mokaba Stadium tickets. Chris Brown lamofa 2 hours. Rekang di tickets before kella (buy the tickets before I cry).”https://x.com/MakhadziSA/status/1675194118027325441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1675194118027325441%7Ctwgr%5E92a57d19b577b7382d424b2d49e314e1f5e54c2e%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thesouthafrican.com%2Flifestyle%2Fceleb-news%2Flocal-celebs%2Fmakhadzi-sell-out-tickets-peter-mokaba-stadium-chris-brown-fnb%2F
While Makhadzi’s tweet was likely meant to express her frustration in a humorous way, it sparked an intense debate on social media, with many South Africans criticizing her for comparing herself to an international artist like Chris Brown. Brown’s concert, which is set to take place just a week before Makhadzi’s, sold out quickly, highlighting the difference in popularity between local and international acts.
### **Social Media Backlash**
Despite Makhadzi’s attempt to draw attention to her concert, her comments were met with widespread backlash. Many felt that her comparison to Chris Brown was unfair and out of place, given the global reach and influence of the American singer compared to her own more regional success. Social media users were quick to point out that international artists often have a much larger fan base and marketing budgets, which naturally contribute to faster ticket sales.
One user, @nkulipp, commented: “Lol, so why are you blackmailing people? Relax, people will buy your tickets if they want to attend your show.”
Another user, @FootballStage_1, added: “You are not that well known shem. Stay in your lane.”
Others were more supportive but still critical of her approach. @custy_kgadi advised, “Meaning you should up your game and refrain from posting negatively, as if you are forcing fans to buy your tickets.”
Another user, @BonoloAnne, pointed out the reality of the situation, stating, “Lmao no offence but you can’t compare yourself to Chris Brown, babes. I mean, international acts will definitely sell more than national acts (except Burna Boy). No offence, but that’s just how it is.”
### **Calls for Patience and Positivity**
While some users were critical, others offered words of encouragement, reminding Makhadzi that South African artists often take longer to sell out large venues but can still be successful in the end. One user, @lindamnkhonto, mentioned the example of South African rapper Cassper Nyovest, whose #FillUp shows also took months to sell out. “Makhadzi, you’re not Chris Brown. Cassper Nyovest #FillUp also took a couple of months to sell out. You will sell out the stadium, relax and keep marketing your show,” they wrote.
Despite the backlash, Makhadzi’s show at Peter Mokaba Stadium is still expected to be a success. As of 5 August, the musician confirmed that 90% of the tickets had already been sold, demonstrating her strong fan base and the support she continues to receive from her loyal followers.
### **Conclusion**
Makhadzi’s frustration over her ticket sales and the subsequent comparison to Chris Brown highlights the challenges that many local artists face when trying to fill large venues. However, with 90% of her tickets already sold, the Limpopo star’s “One Woman Show” is shaping up to be a significant event. While her comments may not have resonated well with everyone, Makhadzi’s talent and dedication to her craft ensure that her fans will show up to support her.