The tragic passing of AKA (Kiernan Jarryd Forbes), one of South Africa’s most influential and beloved rap stars, left a significant mark on the local entertainment industry and the hearts of his fans.

His untimely death, which occurred in February 2023, sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes, particularly from those closest to him. Among those affected was his former partner, DJ Zinhle, the mother of his daughter, Kairo, and a prominent figure in the South African music scene.

While DJ Zinhle has consistently displayed strength and resilience in the face of her loss, recent comments made by DJ Oskido have added a new layer of complexity to the ongoing narrative surrounding Zinhle’s life after AKA’s passing.

In a shocking statement that has since made waves on social media, DJ Oskido, a well-known figure in the South African music industry and a long-time mentor to both AKA and Zinhle, has blamed the late rapper for Zinhle’s changed lifestyle in the year following his death.

Let’s break down the details surrounding Oskido’s comments, the possible reasons behind his stance, and the broader implications of AKA’s death on DJ Zinhle’s life.

DJ Oskido’s Surprising Statement: Why He Blames AKA

In an emotional and candid conversation, DJ Oskido revealed that Zinhle’s lifestyle had dramatically shifted since AKA’s passing, and he attributes much of this change to her past relationship with the rapper.

Oskido, who has known both AKA and Zinhle for years, explained that while AKA’s death has undeniably affected Zinhle on a deep personal level, it is also linked to the emotional and psychological toll that their complex relationship had on her.

While Oskido did not go into specific details about the changes in Zinhle’s lifestyle, he suggested that the dynamics of Zinhle’s life before and after AKA’s death have shifted in ways that are perhaps not entirely positive.

He went on to describe how AKA’s personality—which he noted could be both charming and controversial—had a significant influence on Zinhle, even during their separation.

It is widely known that DJ Zinhle and AKA had a tumultuous yet passionate relationship, with their on-and-off romance garnering significant media attention over the years.

Their relationship produced a daughter, Kairo, and despite their breakup, the two maintained a co-parenting arrangement.

However, the intensity and public nature of their relationship seemed to have left emotional scars on Zinhle, which Oskido alluded to in his statements.

Oskido’s comments are controversial because they imply that AKA’s influence on Zinhle’s life—both during and after their relationship—may have contributed to her current emotional state and the way she has had to redefine her lifestyle in the wake of his death.

Oskido suggested that it’s not just the loss of AKA as a partner but also the legacy and emotional baggage tied to their relationship that Zinhle has had to process, causing her to make some drastic life changes.

DJ Zinhle’s Changed Lifestyle Post-AKA’s Death

Since AKA’s tragic passing, DJ Zinhle has publicly navigated a significant emotional journey.

She has had to balance her role as a mother to Kairo, maintain her professional career, and process the grief from losing someone she once loved deeply.

However, Zinhle’s lifestyle and public persona seem to have evolved in a few noticeable ways since AKA’s passing:

Increased Focus on Self-Care and Wellness: Zinhle has always been known for her strong work ethic, but after AKA’s death, she seems to have shifted her focus toward self-care, mental health, and wellness. She has been vocal about prioritizing her mental health and well-being, with her social media posts reflecting this newfound emphasis on self-love and healing.
A Stronger Focus on Family: While Zinhle has always been a dedicated mother, post-AKA, her bond with Kairo seems even stronger. She often posts about her daughter and their moments together, showing how her priorities have shifted toward family and motherhood in the wake of AKA’s death.
Business and Career Evolution: Zinhle has also continued to focus on her career and business ventures, including her lifestyle brand and jewelry line, Era by DJ Zinhle. She has made a point of forging her own path and building her empire, while also distancing herself from the drama and public attention surrounding her late ex-partner’s legacy.
Public Appearances and Personal Growth: Zinhle has become more reserved in public and has distanced herself from the social circles and environments she may have frequented before. She appears to be focusing on herself and creating boundaries, while still respecting AKA’s memory for the sake of their daughter.

The Emotional Aftermath: Coping with Grief and Legacy

While DJ Zinhle has publicly shown strength, it’s clear that the emotional toll of losing someone like AKA is not something she can simply brush aside.

Many fans have expressed concern that Zinhle might still be grappling with the emotional and psychological effects of her relationship with AKA, and that his legacy is something that will likely haunt her for years to come.

It is important to note that grief is not linear, and people experience and cope with loss in different ways.

For Zinhle, it appears that her relationship with AKA has had lasting effects, and she may be in the process of rediscovering herself after years of navigating the complexities of their public relationship.

DJ Oskido’s comments might seem harsh to some, but they reflect the reality that relationships—especially high-profile ones—can leave deep emotional scars.

Oskido’s observations about Zinhle’s changing lifestyle hint at the ongoing struggles of adjusting to life after a loss, and the toll that comes with rebuilding and reinventing oneself in the face of adversity.

How Fans and Industry Figures Are Responding

Since Oskido’s comments were made public, fans and industry figures have been divided in their reactions. Some have sided with Oskido, agreeing that the influence of AKA on Zinhle’s life cannot be ignored.

Others, however, feel that the blame for Zinhle’s emotional journey should not be placed solely on AKA’s legacy, arguing that she is navigating grief and healing on her terms.

Zinhle herself has remained mostly quiet in response to Oskido’s remarks. Her social media posts have continued to focus on positive and empowering messages, prioritizing self-love and healing. However, some fans have speculated that Zinhle may address the issue privately with Oskido, given their long-standing relationship and mutual respect.

Conclusion: A Complex Legacy and a New Beginning

The year following AKA’s death has undoubtedly been one of transformation for DJ Zinhle. As a public figure, she has had to face the complexities of grief, healing, and personal growth while navigating her responsibilities as a mother and businesswoman.