How lockdown and fame shattered Berita's marriage to Nota Baloyi: a story of heartbreak and healing

Multi-award-winning singer-songwriter Berita (real name Gugulethu Khumalo) has opened up about her painful split from music executive Nhlamulo “Nota” Baloyi during a candid conversation on the podcast “The Voice with Palesa”. 

The “Thandolwethu” hitmaker reflected on how their once-thriving marriage began to unravel in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, sharing that external pressures and personal changes ultimately led to their divorce. 

In the deeply personal interview, Berita revealed how the 2020 lockdown dramatically impacted their relationship.

As the world grappled with isolation, Baloyi found a new voice in public discourse, emerging as a controversial commentator whose outspoken views in the music industry soon caused friction in their home.

“We went into lockdown. I don't know what happened during that time, but I think a lot changed… He decided that he wants to be a critic and use his voice in different ways, and I didn't have a problem,” Berita explained.

But as Baloyi embraced his new public persona, Berita struggled with the fallout for her brand.

“When I tried to talk to him about his new ways and how it was affecting my brand, he told me straight that it wasn't his fault that I am too quiet.”

Social media, she noted, played a pivotal - and often painful - role in their troubles. As Baloyi’s public profile grew more assertive, Berita found the dynamic increasingly difficult to navigate.

“You marry someone thinking you know them, then they develop a new personality… until that personality starts harming you.”

Their separation, which reportedly took place in 2022, marked the beginning of Berita’s journey to reclaim her life and career.

“I’m sharing this because I know many people are in relationships where their partners change, especially under the spotlight of social media.”

As the dust settled, Baloyi - never one to shy away from controversy - took to social media in June 2024 to announce their official divorce, offering up provocative reflections on wealth and relationships.

“The lesson is to make sure she leaves with nothing of yours … Bringing someone up out of poverty is like going to bed with a snake,” he wrote.

His remarks were widely criticised and only reinforced perceptions of the couple’s tumultuous relationship.

Despite the messy fallout - and Baloyi’s continued commentary - Berita has remained focused on her path to healing and peace.

Online, their story drew a range of reactions. One fan praised Berita’s strength, writing, “This was so refreshing. She is such a beautiful soul.”

Others expressed more conflicted views, questioning the choices made by both parties.

In the end, their story stands as a cautionary tale about how fame and public scrutiny can strain even the most intimate bonds.

Now putting her career and well-being first, Berita hopes her experience will inspire others facing similar challenges.

“I know many people are in relationships where their partners change,” she concluded, striking a chord with those who may be quietly grappling with the same painful reality.