OkaySwisher Dismisses Return to “Up To Speed” Podcast After Mending Ties with DJ Speedsta. South African hip-hop commentator OkaySwisher has clarified his relationship with DJ Speedsta, sharing that, although they have resolved their personal issues, he will not be returning to Up To Speed.
In a recent TikTok Live session, Swisher addressed ongoing rumors regarding his relationship with DJ Speedsta, confirming that their previous tensions have dissipated.
“We’re cool,” stated Swisher, adding that while he appreciates the rekindled friendship, he is not inclined to resume work on the podcast. Instead, he prefers to catch up with Speedsta over lunch for a personal reconnection rather than diving back into the realm of their prior collaboration.
This revelation, shared through SA Hip Hop 247, comes months after Swisher’s departure from the podcast ignited conversations within the local hip-hop scene.
Swisher was among the inaugural co-hosts of Up To Speed, alongside Fif_Laaa and DJ Speedsta, as the show gained traction for its discussions surrounding South African hip-hop, industry issues, music releases, and cultural commentary. Their on-screen chemistry garnered admiration from viewers, making the podcast a popular choice for many fans.
However, the collaboration eventually fell apart due to disputes over payment. Swisher previously noted that he chose to leave because he had not received compensation for his contributions. He indicated that discussions regarding payment were delayed during the show’s early development, but these conversations never resulted in an agreement.
DJ Speedsta later clarified that the podcast was still developing, and the team understood that no immediate financial compensation would be available while establishing the platform.
The contrasting narratives created a divide among fans online. Some supported Swisher’s expectation of compensation, while others favored Speedsta’s long-term vision of growing the podcast before monetization.
Currently, Swisher seems to have moved on from the disagreement while holding firm to his position. His recent comments indicate that while their personal rapport may have mended, he sees no justification for revisiting a professional relationship that ultimately faltered.
Many have commended Swisher’s perspective as a sign of growth within an industry where conflicts often attract public attention. He has opted to distinguish personal relationships from professional endeavors, choosing to extend goodwill while maintaining clear professional boundaries.
DJ Speedsta has not yet commented publicly on Swisher’s latest statements. However, in prior remarks, he expressed his intention to focus on fostering the culture rather than revisiting past conflicts.
Fans remain divided on the matter. Some have praised Swisher for his steadfastness and respect, while others still wish for a future collaboration between the two. For the time being, it seems that a friendly lunch is more likely than another episode of Up To Speed featuring the former co-host.
Regardless of whether they meet again, Swisher’s message serves as a reminder that mending fences does not require reviving old business partnerships. Sometimes, mutual respect is sufficient.
