Naledi Aphiwe’s Rise to Stardom and the Controversy Surrounding Chris Brown’s South African Tour

As anticipation builds for Chris Brown’s upcoming performance in South Africa, one rising star is set to shine on stage alongside the R&B icon—17-year-old Naledi Aphiwe. The Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal, native has captured the hearts of music lovers, particularly for her collaboration with Chris Brown on the track *Shooter* from his latest album *11:11*. This highly anticipated performance at the FNB Stadium on December 14 is set to be a major milestone in Naledi’s career.

### Naledi Aphiwe’s Musical Journey

Naledi’s meteoric rise to fame began in October 2022 when Chris Brown shared a video of her singing on his Instagram, praising her impressive vocal ability. The post sparked a wave of attention, leading to a life-changing opportunity for the young singer. Since then, Naledi’s career has skyrocketed, culminating in her collaboration with Brown on *Shooter*, a song that has also financially supported her. In addition to the recognition, Naledi earned R56,207 ($3,000) from the song’s royalties, which she says has significantly improved her family’s financial situation.

In an interview with *TshisaLIVE*, Naledi expressed deep gratitude for Chris Brown’s support, stating that his decision to work with someone from a small town like hers was both humbling and life-altering. “Chris Brown did what I would have never done… I appreciate him so much,” she shared, highlighting how the opportunity has impacted her life and helped her family overcome financial struggles.

### The Controversy Surrounding Chris Brown’s Tour

While Naledi’s career continues to gain momentum, not everyone is enthusiastic about her performance alongside Chris Brown. A petition has surfaced, calling for the cancellation of his South African concerts due to the singer’s past domestic abuse allegations. The petition has stirred debate, with some fans pushing for Brown’s shows to be canceled, while others support his musical career and view the petition as unjust.

At this stage, it remains unclear whether the petition will influence the tour’s outcome. Nevertheless, the controversy is fueling mixed reactions from the public, with many questioning whether an artist’s past should impact their current success.

### Naledi’s Ambitious Future

Despite the ongoing debate surrounding Chris Brown’s tour, Naledi remains focused on her future in music. With over 80,000 Instagram followers, the teenager has already made a name for herself, releasing two tracks—*Uyangijabulisa* featuring Nomfundo Moh and *Zojiki Izinto* featuring Fezeka Dlamini. Naledi credits her success to the support of her family, especially her sister, musician Nontokozo Mkhize, who has been an integral part of her musical journey.

As a Grade 11 student at Khethokuhle Secondary School, Naledi is also balancing her education with her burgeoning music career. Her teacher, Thami Bhengu, played a pivotal role in discovering her talent when he filmed her and her classmates singing at school, a moment that ultimately set her on the path to stardom.

### Looking Ahead

Looking toward the future, Naledi hopes to continue making music and expand her platform. She is determined to use her newfound fame to uplift others and pursue personal goals, including visiting her mother’s grave, which the family could not afford to maintain last year

Naledi’s success story is a testament to the power of social media and the importance of opportunities, regardless of where they come from. As she prepares to take the stage with Chris Brown, her star is undoubtedly on the rise, and her journey is only just beginning.