Tragic loss triggers artists!

TSHWANE artists are disappointed by the Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture.

They demand recognition and are pleading with the department to take action.

Tshwane's entertainment sector has experienced a significant loss in the last two weeks, with the death of TikTok sensation Lebogang "Aus Velemina" Ledwaba, who was buried on Saturday, 20 April, and other burial preparations underway for slain entertainer Peter "Mashata" Mabuse who was killed on Sunday, 21 April.

Amstel Maboa, 4SUM's former lead vocalist, told Daily Sun the department respects "certain people in the entertainment industry".

According to Amstel, it didn't make sense for the department not to be present at Aus Valemina's funeral while actors, musicians, entertainers, and social media influencers were in attendance.

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"The department is doing nothing for artists, so we have to work even harder to make ends meet. Where's the budget, and why can't it be transparent like any other department?" Amstel asked.

He said the department only uses artists when it suits them, particularly now that the elections are fast approaching.

Radio host and DJ Martin Tinomesh Mashilo stressed the significance of being acknowledged and supported by the public sector.

"We can't watch other provinces support their artists while we're not recognised. Parliament, please reach out and meet us halfway," DJ Martinsaid.

Radio DJ and MC Ofentse'  Mawisa' Mathopa is pleading with the city to intervene and support them. 

TikTok star Tshepiso Vincent Mashaba, also known as President Gay, said the entertainment isn't contributing to the advancements of artists.

"We're not just entertainers. We're emotional doctors who heal, inspire and put smiles on the faces of people who are going through social ills," Vincent said.