Lloyiso Gijana shared the stage with Freddie Kenney executive chairperson of Kenworth Group at the Lemo Fest. Picture: Supplied.
The Lemo Fest 2024's Lovers & Friends Concert organisers released a statement announcing that an on-stage incident involving singer songwriter Lloyiso had been amicably resolved.
This came after the musician walked out and swore at the organisers after a scheduling mix up. However, this was quickly resolved.
“Lloyiso expressed his heartfelt gratitude and apologised to patrons, organizers & fellow performers. In a powerful gesture, he joined Freddie Kenney and Nathi on stage for "Asilwi nabantu, silwa nemimoya" - a moment of unity and celebration!”
Lloyiso’s performance at the Bloemfontein festival was drama-filled, thanks to it being behind schedule.
During his performance, Lloyiso abruptly stopped his performance and got honest with patrons and lambasted the organisers for not respecting artists.
He detailed how despite being on time for the performance, he performed an hour later.
“I’m f**king tired of people not respecting artists. We worked so hard to come on this stage and prepare this set for you guys and you treat us like s%^t.
“You don't give us our room when we come here. You tell us we're going to perform at 11 but we come and perform at 12.
“What the f**k is that. Shout out to you Lemo Fest and f**k you,” he said walking off the stage.
However, it didn’t take long for Lloyiso to return to stage to apologise. He came back on stage and apologised to patrons for swearing and for his behaviour.
@lemofest A Moment of Reconciliation & Celebration We're thrilled to announce that the on-stage incident involving Lloyiso at Lemo Fest 2024's Lovers & Friends Concert has been amicably resolved! Lloyiso expressed his heartfelt gratitude & apologised to patrons, organizers & fellow performers. In a powerful gesture, he joined Freddie Kenney & Nathi on stage for "Asilwi nabantu, silwa nemimoya" - a moment of unity & celebration! #lemofest2024 #ReyaKasi #Mangaung #freestatetiktok #southafrica #bloemfontein ♬ original sound - LemoFest
“And I understand that we are humans, we make mistakes and I apologise to Lemo Fest, they put on a beautiful event for the town and we should be grateful for such great musicians that come on stage...
“I wanna thank you all for the support and apologise,” said Lloyiso before breaking into song.
Despite Lemo Fest and Lloyiso reconciling, organisers did not address the festival’s late start and disorganisation.
Nzimandethato commented on the organiser's statement and questioned organisers.
“But why aren’t you addressing his initial statements? He apologised because that is the professional thing to do, but he isn’t wrong.
“Besides the artists, we attendees are also disappointed with the scheduling and management of performances.
“Why release a timed lineup if you’re not going to abide by it? It’s a mess. It’s 02:45am and Samthing Soweto, Mafikizolo, Nomfundo, Simi have yet to hit the stage?!?”
IOL Entertainment