The issue began when a social media user known as Mwajiku shared a clip of Jay Melody singing his part in “Mapozi.” In the video, Diamond appears impressed by Jay’s singing and touches his head in excitement. However, many interpreted this moment differently, claiming it symbolized witchcraft and alleging that Diamond “took” Jay Melody’s talent. They point to the fact that Jay’s songs have not performed as well since their collaboration compared to before.

Jay Melody responded on his Instagram page, firmly rejecting the accusations. He denied that his talent had been stolen or that his music career had declined because of the incident. He emphasized that he does not make music to impress women or to be number one.

He wrote “If you believe my talent was stolen, I don’t know about that. If you don’t like my music, then don’t listen to it; just move on.”

He also criticized those spreading the rumors, saying “You fear me for no reason. I don’t live in your world. I don’t make music to attract women, to be number one, or to smoke like you.”

The artist further explained that his main motivation is to support his struggling family. “I do this because I am poor. I make music to earn money to take care of my family. You once supported me and lifted me up, but now you are looking for ways to bring me down.”

Clearly distressed, Jay Melody also called out people who continue to attack him online. “You are targeting me in the comments, making clips, and sending me messages in DM just to make me feel bad. Will you only be satisfied if my talent disappears? Don’t do this to me. You may choose to leave me, but that doesn’t mean I can’t still be Jay.”

How do other artists view this issue

Another top Tanzanian artist, Alikiba known for supporting younger musicians also weighed in on the controversy. He suggested there might be some truth to the rumors about Diamond being accused of taking other artists’ talent, though he did not confirm anything outright.

On his Snapchat story, he posted a photo of Jay Melody and wrote “Maybe these rumors are true, or maybe they’re not but to some extent, there could be some truth.”

When pressed further, Alikiba said he could not remain silent on an issue widely discussed on social media. He pointed out that although there are many artists in Tanzania, only one is repeatedly accused of taking others’ talent. Until now, Diamond Platnumz has not yet responded to the allegations.

This is not the first time such claims have surfaced in Tanzania. There have been recurring rumors that when Diamond collaborates with upcoming artists, their careers fail to grow afterward, while his own continues to rise internationally.

Jay Melody is known for hit songs such as “Sugar,” “Nitasema,” “Sawa,” and “Nakupenda.” His fans believe he should currently be at the same level as top Tanzanian artists like Marioo, Rayvanny, Mbosso, and Zuchu among the others.