He was booked to perform at last year's Cherry Festival in Ficksburg and paid an upfront fee of R170 000. However, singer and songwriter Vusi Nova did not show up for the big celebration.

A NO-SHOW

The Thandiwe singer was booked at the two-day annual live event, celebrating the cherry harvest in Ficksburg from 25 to 26 November 2023. Vusi was booked alongside Sipho Hostix Mabuse, Master KG, Semito, Prince Kaybee, Star Chalale, Blackmok Jazz Band, Mamicky, Senqu Jazz Band, Botala ba Linare, Khaya, DJ Finzo, and other Local artists and deejays. According to a letter of demand seen by Zimoja, Vusi owes R170 000 for the booking he missed.

ACCIDENT

Vusi tells ZiMoja that he failed to make it to the event due to an accident. "I got into an accident driving from the Eastern Cape to the Free State. It was not major but because we had to wait for police, there was a delay," he said. "We could not make it on time. My life was on the line. I offered to come back for the following show. I humbly apologised and paid back the full money which was given to me. I paid those people." Vusi said it is the middleman owing the event's organisers. "The promoter, who added their fee on top of what I was charging is the one owing the organisers. I paid back what I received; she needs to pay them."

NOT OWING

A gatvol Vusi said he is tired of people using his name to gain popularity. "I am very professional. I always make sure I show up on time. Anyone who has booked me knows this. Sometimes things happen that make us deviate from our plans, but we try to resolve matters," he added. "One thing about me is I never change and I always show up! So, they can take it to court, but they know. I spoke to the organisers and informed them; that they are coming for the wrong person." The promoter who booked Vusi could not be reached for comment.