Usimamane Reflects On Public Criticism And Learning To Ignore Negativity. South African artist Usimamane has spoken candidly about the emotional toll of public criticism, revealing that backlash directed at both his music and personal character once left him feeling angry and frustrated.
In a recent interview, the rising star reflected on how his relationship with criticism has evolved as his profile and success have grown.
“Honestly speaking, I’m a human being,” Usimamane said when asked how negative comments affect him. “At first, it was a thing of, like, I wanted to put hands on people.”
The artist admitted that his initial reaction to criticism was rooted in anger, but said he eventually realised that responding aggressively would only create more problems. Despite perceptions that success has softened him, Usimamane maintained that he has not forgotten where he comes from.
“People think that I’ve become nice, you know, like I’m a softie now,” he said. “We’re the people we are today because we grinded and made it. But I’m from Umlazi, so violence has always been the answer.”
While acknowledging those feelings, the musician emphasised that maturity and guidance from trusted people around him helped him change his outlook.
Usimamane credited his close circle for teaching him how to navigate public scrutiny and negativity. According to the artist, those with more experience in the industry showed him how to remain focused despite criticism from outsiders.
“They’ve been doing this for the longest time, so they know how to manoeuvre through the negativity when people are speaking ill of you,” he explained.
The artist said those lessons ultimately allowed him to move beyond the anger that once consumed him and redirect his energy toward his career.
“They taught me that too, and that’s how I managed to get over it, get past it, and just continue focusing on the craft,” he said.
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