Zuchu vs Wasafi FM – A rift in Tanzania’s musical powerhouse

In the glittering realm of Tanzanian music, Wasafi Classic Baby (WCB) has long been a symbol of success, launching artistes into stardom with unmatched consistency.

However, the latest controversy surrounding Zuchu, one of the label’s brightest stars, has cast a shadow over its reputation.

The 29-year-old singer has publicly declared her intention to take legal action against Wasafi FM, a media outlet owned by her mentor and rumored partner, Diamond Platnumz.

Zuchu alleges that the station’s presenters, particularly on the Mashamsham show, have persistently mocked her, focusing on her personal life and alleged desperation for marriage.

These comments, Zuchu claims, have significantly affected her mental health and artistic expression.

“Despite the success I’ve achieved under @Wcb_Wasafi, I continue to face bullying and harassment through this platform,” Zuchu stated on Instagram, calling out the station’s disregard for her dignity.

The singer’s frustrations reached a boiling point earlier this year, prompting her to take drastic measures. She removed all mentions of WCB from her social media profiles, unfollowed Diamond Platnumz on Instagram, and indicated plans to serve a legal demand letter to both Diamond and Wasafi FM.

This bold move has reignited memories of other WCB artistes who have severed ties with the label, including Harmonize and Rayvanny, both of whom left amid similar controversies.

At the heart of Zuchu’s grievances lies Wasafi FM’s Mashamsham show, hosted by Juma Lokole.

The program, known for its candid commentary on trending topics, has been accused of perpetuating narratives that ridicule Zuchu’s personal and professional life.

In her statement, Zuchu expressed her dismay at the station’s focus on her relationship with Diamond, dispelling rumours that she pressured him into marriage.

"I have no intention of forcing Naseeb (Diamond) into marriage. He has the right to be with whomever he chooses,” she asserted.

Lokole, for his part, defended the show’s content as professional, emphasizing that their discussions are rooted in what’s trending.

However, reports indicate that he has since resigned from Wasafi FM, leading to speculation that his departure may be connected to the controversy.

The fallout has sparked widespread debate within Tanzania’s entertainment industry. While some see Zuchu’s actions as a bold stand against harassment, others view them as a potential career risk, considering her close ties to Diamond and the Wasafi brand.

Diamond Platnumz has remained notably silent, neither addressing Zuchu’s accusations nor offering clarification on the label’s stance.

This silence has only fueled speculation about the state of their professional and personal relationship.

Meanwhile, WCB shared a video of Zuchu with Nigerian star Ayra Starr during a Zanzibar tour, signaling that the label may still support Zuchu despite the ongoing drama.

What’s next?

Zuchu’s decision to speak out has placed her at a crossroads. Will her actions lead to meaningful change within the Wasafi ecosystem, or will they mark the beginning of her exit from the label?

For now, fans and industry insiders are left in suspense, watching as this high-stakes saga unfolds.

One thing is clear: Zuchu’s stand has sparked a conversation about respect, boundaries, and the pressures faced by artistes in Tanzania’s music industry.