The controversy erupted on social media following MacG’s pointed remarks about Ciza’s recent accolades at the Metro FM Music Awards.
In a heated episode of Podcast and Chill aired on Monday, 27 April 2026, the podcaster expressed his belief that foul play may have influenced Ciza’s award-winning night, during which he secured both the Artist of the Year and Best Male Artist honors.
MacG made serious allegations against the singer’s management team and his father, TK Nciza, co-founder of TS Records, suggesting they “bought” the accolades as part of a strategy to gain international recognition.
“They want to do the whole Tyla thing, they want to go international, so they need to buy these awards for credibility.”
MacG contended that Ciza did not have a legitimate chance at winning the Artist of the Year title with just one song. He added that awarding Ciza the Song of the Year title, for which he was also nominated alongside Best Dance and Best Music Video, would have been “too obvious.”
Co-hosts Sol Phenduka and Ghost Lady noted that while there have been past allegations of rigging, Ciza’s track “Isaka (6 AM),” which had previously received support from Prince Kaybee, was a significant hit, widely popular in both local and international charts in 2025.
“I can take Song of the Year. Shela was big, but he did have one of the biggest songs.”
MacG also suggested that out of all the contenders for Artist of the Year, including Zee Nxumalo, Sam Deep, DJ Maphorisa, and Shandesh, Zee Nxumalo, who expressed her feelings about her losses, was more deserving of the title, having “had a better year” than Ciza.
Discussions about the alleged malpractice within the Metro FM Music Awards have persisted for years, notably highlighted by the late rapper Riky Rick during a notable acceptance speech in 2017.
While on stage, he delivered a candid critique of the industry that set a precedent for questioning the legitimacy of local award ceremonies. MacG’s recent comments about Ciza resonate with that ongoing public concern.
The unverified statements by MacG have not only scrutinized Ciza’s methods but also raised doubts about the legitimacy of Tyla’s recent award achievements, including her two Grammy Awards, leading many followers to speculate whether her international success was similarly aided by behind-the-scenes efforts.
The dialogue has expanded from just one awards night to a broader inquiry regarding the integrity of the South African music scene. Whether MacG’s assertions hold any truth or are merely to gain attention, he has managed to draw focus back onto the “pay-to-play” culture within the industry.
Watch MacG’s video below.
Public reactions to MacG’s remarks
Viewers responded quickly to MacG’s allegations.
Dembe_cut expressed:
“MacG is right.”
tee_thaneo remarked:
“I totally agree! There is no way this kid can be the best artist of the year with one song, never! Maybe the best newcomer or song of the year. WE SEE YOU!”
Unconfirmed_ZA criticized TK Nciza:
“He pulls strings in the ANC, the ANC runs the country, and the country owns SABC. Go figure.”
lenyasalaafrica opined:
“Song of the year would’ve made sense for Ciza. Artist of the year? No, that award belonged to Zee.”
Source: Instagram
In contrast, some fans defended Ciza, stating his achievements were deserved and unrelated to his father’s influence.
iamgudwhat stated:
“But let’s be honest, the song was trending also internationally.”
Anikwa151 questioned:
“So in SA, we don’t accept defeat? Why are we so negative? I mean, I voted for Ciza. What do you mean?”
