It seems to be the season of renewal and forgiveness for producer and DJ Nkosinathi "Black Coffee" Maphumulo. After declaring that he was giving his life to the Lord and Saviour, the Drive hitmaker has made peace with his long-term friend and apprentice, Ashley "Shimza" Raphala.

THE SPLIT

The two deejays, who have known each other for more than a decade, have rekindled their brotherhood. A friend in their close circle revealed that they fell out when Shimza was still signed to Soulistic Music, a label owned by Black Coffee, which was dissolved and the agency was born . "He felt he was not growing, and that Nathi was closing doors to him," the insider said. "That was not necessarily true because Shimza was young. Black Coffee was also pushing his career while working with the likes of Culoe De Song, Thiwe, DJ Kabila and other artists. Maybe, he didn't push him hard enough but Shimza felt he was not growing." The friend added that Black Coffee stopped booking Shimza, which he confirmed in an interview. "He doesn't book me for his stuff and they are trying to make it difficult for me to book him. He is a bit expensive, obviously," Shimza said at the time. "At some point, I was, like, if the relationship is not working, then that is cool. Let's meet and greet each other," he added.

 A throwback of Black Coffee and Shimza Picture: Supplied

TALKING STAGES

In a previous interview, Black Coffee said a lot happened between the two of them. "As we grow as people, we don't realise when our friendships expire. I'm not just talking about Shimza alone," he said. "You need to decide when a friendship has served its purpose. Sometimes we stick around, and it becomes toxic." He added that they had been back and forth and last met at Oskido's house where they had a conversation. "At the time I was going through a lot of things that helped me grow." 

MAKING UP

Black Coffee confirmed they had suashed "the beef" by inviting Shimza to his birthday celebration. Shimza was also invited to attend a surprise birthday dinner hosted for Black Coffee at Signature Restaurant in Sandton Johannesburg. "They are in such a good place," the friend said. "But all friendships are rocky, that is part of growing up, but they love each other." Shimza confirmed to ZiMoja that they are in a good place. He, however, did not wish to go into detail. "We are all about moving forward."