Award-winning Afro-pop musician Msaki has revealed how her relationship with radio and TV presenter Smash Afrika nearly destroyed her career.
Speaking candidly on Relebogile Mobotja’s podcast Unpacked, Msaki, born Asanda Mvana, explained that the scandal surrounding their relationship caused her to lose millions and tarnished her reputation, leading to widespread bullying.
Msaki Speaks On Her Relationship With Smash Africa
Last year, Msaki found herself in the spotlight after reports claimed she was involved in an extramarital affair with Smash Afrika, a presenter on 5FM and Massive Music. She denied the allegations, insisting that Smash was already separated from his ex-wife, Kefiloe Mdutyulwa, the daughter of actress Rami Chuene.
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Despite this, the public labelled her as a “homewrecker,” a label that she says shattered both her career and her personal life.
“When he received the call, we were together, and his stunt was that he doesn’t speak to the media or tabloids,” Msaki told Mobotja, referring to Smash Afrika’s refusal to defend her in the media.
According to Msaki, his indifference led to severe backlash for her, as the public continued to portray her as the other woman.
“I still have a sick feeling in my stomach from that day because I was cited as a woman who broke a marriage.”
The Toll Of The Drama On Her Career
The musician disclosed that she lost R10 million within two months due to the scandal, as corporate sponsors and business partners pulled out.
“I lost a lot of money. I started pulling out of shows and returning money,” she explained.
Msaki also described the emotional toll, sharing how the bullying and name-calling from the public intensified while Smash Afrika did nothing to clear her name.
“Even my friends were mad at him; they were like, dude, take charge and be a man.”
A month after the story broke, Msaki revealed that her relationship with Smash Afrika crashed.
“He seemed to enjoy his newly found fame, and his followers were increasing while I was still trapped in a morally bankrupt state,” she added.
Zimoja reached out to Smash Afrika for comment, but he did not respond.