Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Editor
MUSICIANS are not only celebrities, but they are also human beings deserving respect and dignity.
However, harassment and abuse of musicians by fans is a pervasive issue that undermines the creativity and passion artistes bring to their work.
This problem transcends borders, impacting performers in the international, regional and local scenes.
Consider the case of California-bred singer Kesha, who bravely spoke out against her former producer, Dr Luke, detailing emotional and sexual abuse during their professional relationship.
Despite her courage, the backlash she faced illustrated how often the industry prioritises the abuser over the victim.
Kesha’s story shows the lengths to which some fans feel entitled to invade an artiste’s personal space.
In Africa, a Nigerian singer, known for her dynamic performances, faced a similar violation.
During a concert, she was groped by a fan who rushed to the stage, crossing the line between admiration and abuse.
“It’s disheartening to see how some fans disregard boundaries,” she said.
“We are here to entertain, not to be disrespected.”
Back home, Zimdancehall artiste Enzo Ishall recently shared a distressing encounter where a fan kissed him backstage while asking for a selfie.
“I felt uncomfortable, but I didn’t want to ruin the moment for her,” he reflected.
“While in the UK at a show, a girl kissed me on the cheek, she might be a fan yes, but I did not like that.”
He confirmed that he is a victim of both physical and emotional abuse, courtesy of fans.
“I have also been dragged and harassed countless times, and it goes as far as losing valuables. I lost my ear monitors and body pack in Poland. I was dragged back stage in Cape Town and later realised it was an attempt to kidnap me so they can get money from promoters,” he shared.
Such incidents highlight the blurred lines between fandom and harassment, often leaving artistes feeling vulnerable and powerless.
Songstress and diva Tamy Moyo concurred with Enzo Ishall that the trend is continuing and something must be done.
“I have had a few inappropriate encounters with a few individuals, fans.
“I have a good team with me always and they will address the issue in a polite manner, usually just talk it out or ask for restraint on the other’s part.
“We always try to deal with it in a calm manner to avoid aggression. It can be tough though to keep calm but it is possible,” she explained.
Another victim of harassment and abuse by fans is multi-award winner Nutty O, who confessed that these fans go an extra mile of physically abusing him to an extent of sexual assault.
“Long back in 2016, some fans threw cans on me once, and there is no story of me being harassed. My path has been unique and fans love me. I have seen other artistes being abused and this affects the creative industry because it kills the confidence and morale on stage. It kills the quality of production as they become scared of expressing themselves because they can be canned by fans,” he said.
“My security is always there and relevant authorities should strain orders to those who abuse and harass us. Recently Enzo Ishall was kissed and it happens to so many of us, I have been kissed on cheek and my shoe to extent of sexual assault on stage by some women. I felt bad and I lost confidence as I was shy. These things are happening and something must be done.”
A survey also concluded that is why some artistes avoid fans even taking a selfie with them.
However, to address this pervasive issue, local artistes have said that the entertainment industry must implement stricter guidelines for fan interactions, ensuring that artists are protected in both public and private settings.
“Concert organisers should establish clear policies regarding audience behaviour and provide training for staff on handling such situations effectively.”
“Second, a cultural shift is essential in how society views celebrity interactions. Fans must recognise that artistes are human beings deserving of respect and personal space. Education campaigns can foster an understanding of consent, emphasising that admiration should never cross into unwanted advances,” explained Nutty O.
Finally, artists should feel encouraged to share their experiences without fear of judgment or backlash. “We need to speak up,” Enzo Ishall stated.
“Only then can we begin to change the narrative.”
By addressing these issues and fostering a culture of respect, the music industry can create a safer environment for artists, allowing them to thrive both on and off stage.
On the fans side, some who commented on anonymity said that they often act out of deep affection and admiration for their favourite artistes, yet this passion can lead to misguided actions.
“I love Jah Prayzah to the bone. I would cry each time I see him on stage and I can’t wait for a moment to get a selfie with him. Someone gave me his number and have been calling but seems it might be an old number. Please do not publish my name because my husband will kill me,” said a 36-year-old lady from Haig Park.
“We play his music every day and my husband think its obsession but I am a die-hard fan of him.”
It has been seen that the emotional connections fans feel can sometimes distort their perception of boundaries, leading them to believe that their love entitles them to behave inappropriately.
“For example, during a recent Beyonce concert in London, a fan shouted, “I love you so much, I just wanted to feel your energy!”
This comment reflects a common sentiment among fans, but it can easily cross into inappropriate behaviour if not checked.
