In a move that has ignited a heated debate among fans, a lookalike of the late South African hip-hop sensation, AKA, recently took to the stage to perform “All Eyes On Me”, one of the rapper’s most celebrated tracks.
The impersonator, whose identity remains undisclosed, aimed to capture the essence of AKA, who was tragically murdered in February 2023.
However, the tribute performance led to a backlash that echoed across social media, where fans expressed their dismay and disappointment.
Fans of the Supa Mega took to X to voice their concerns that the performance disrespected the beloved artist's memory and legacy.
AKA's lookalike performing one of his songs in a club pic.twitter.com/Yg2MTeRrlu
Commenting on the viral video, one user lamented: “I just hope this is the last time we see this disrespect to Super Mega’s legacy. This guy must start his own career and not hijack AKA’s career.”
Another user stated: “We all don’t believe he's really gone, but he must stop this nonsense of disrespecting AKA.”
A third noted: “This is an American thing to do. It’s disrespectful here in Africa. We don’t do impersonations here. I hope we don’t see this again. If he wants to make music he can make his own and not piggyback on AKA's.”
Despite the wave of negativity, a faction of supporters defended the performer, arguing that any effort to remember and celebrate AKA's legacy is worthwhile.
“Honestly speaking this is healing, this brother needs to continue,” remarked one supporter.
Another fan added: “People always impersonate the likes of Michael Jackson; to me, that shows the level of an icon the deceased was. Let's not hate. After all, you're only dead when people stop remembering you.”
A third supporter wrote: “The true definition of legends doesn’t die but they multiply”.
The controversy surrounding this performance has sparked a broader conversation about the ethics of impersonating deceased artists and the sensitivity required in such tributes.
Many social media users cautioned against performances that might dilute the artistic contributions of these iconic figures, urging that any tribute must be rooted in authenticity and respect.