Zakwe on Navigating the Beef Between Duncan and Big Zulu: “It’s Not Comfortable for Me”
The beef between Big Zulu and Duncan has been one of the most talked-about topics in South African hip hop recently. While fans and fellow artists have been quick to weigh in, one person has remained largely reserved on the matter: Zakwe. Given his close relationships with both rappers, his silence has been notable—until now.
In an exclusive interview with SA Hip Hop Mag, Zakwe finally opened up about the beef, admitting that the situation is a deeply uncomfortable one for him. “It’s probably the first time I have to answer about Duncan and Big Zulu,” he shared. “They are my brothers, but if they want to have a little battle, I allow them. But it’s not comfortable for me. It initially was about the music and reviving the game.”
Zakwe’s discomfort isn’t just about his friendship with both artists; it stems from the fact that he was caught off guard by the intensity of the conflict. He revealed that he only heard the diss track after it had already been released. By then, it was too late for him to intervene. “I only got to listen to the joint when it dropped,” he explained. “It was too late for me to intervene. I totally disagree with what’s happening with the conflict.”
He expressed his disappointment with the turn of events and disclosed that he has actively tried to reconcile the two artists. To avoid further fueling the flames, he has adopted a new strategy in his interactions with them. “I took to be reserved when I’m with Duncan—I don’t talk about Big Zulu. And when I’m with Big Zulu, I don’t talk about Duncan.”
It’s worth noting that the animosity between the two may not be as one-sided as some fans believe. In his own interview with us, Big Zulu made it clear that while he doesn’t hate Duncan, he does have an issue with how far Duncan took things. Interestingly, Big Zulu also included Duncan in his personal top 10 list, suggesting a complex dynamic of respect and friction.
As the beef continues to unfold, Zakwe’s perspective offers a unique and sobering look at the personal toll it’s taking on the artists behind the music. It remains to be seen if his efforts to broker peace will be successful, but one thing is clear: this isn’t just a lyrical battle—it’s a conflict that is affecting real relationships.
Watch Zakwe SA Hip Hop Mag Interview Below
