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Durban, South Africa — Gqom sensation Babes Wodumo, real name Bongekile Simelane Maphumulo, has publicly apologized for a viral performance where she sang a gospel song off-key at her friend Pearl Mkhize’s funeral in Esikhaleni, KwaZulu-Natal, on September 13, 2025.
The emotional moment, captured on video, showed the 31-year-old tearfully attempting Udumo Ngolwakho while visibly distraught, sparking widespread debate on social media. Some questioned her vocal ability as a gqom star, while others speculated about alcohol use. Babes confirmed she was under the influence, expressing deep regret and vowing to avoid alcohol to prevent further embarrassment.
The video, which amassed over 500,000 views on X and TikTok by September 15, 2025, stunned mourners and fans. Known for hits like Wololo, Babes’ shaky rendition led to comments like @KZNMusicFan’s: “How does a gqom queen miss gospel notes like that?” Others, like @MournerSA, empathized:
“She was grieving—give her grace.” Addressing the backlash, Babes told Daily Sun: “I would like to apologise… it was because of booze, and now I’m scared of booze. I did many regrettable things and became a laughingstock. I’m ashamed, ngiyaxolisa.” Her candor has resonated, with @SupportBabes tweeting: “She owned it—takes guts.”
The funeral coincided with Babes’ two-day talent auditions at Durban’s Bat Centre (September 13-14) for new gqom, Afro-pop, and soul acts under her Wena Wodumo Entertainment and West Ink labels. Unable to attend due to the funeral, she left manager Nondu Simelane to oversee the successful event, with winners to be announced soon. “I’m focused on building new talent,” Babes shared, signaling her resilience amid personal and legal challenges.
Babes is also navigating a legal battle, facing assault charges after allegedly attacking Durban designer Philile “Philly” Mhlongo of SK Designs on March 12, 2024. She’s due in Durban Magistrates Court on September 25, 2025, for trial.
Despite setbacks, including financial struggles post-amapiano’s rise and her husband Mampintsha’s 2022 death, Babes persists. Her story, viewed 200,000 times on X, underscores the pressures of fame and grief, with fans rallying: “Babes is human—let’s lift her up,” posted @GqomLover. As she rebuilds, her apology marks a step toward healing and accountability.
