Association says moves made to effect edits on Yo Maps controversial ‘budget’ video

The Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM) has acknowledged public concern over scenes in the latest music video by Yo Maps Yo, saying it has engaged the artiste and his team to address content deemed culturally inappropriate.

In a statement issued by ZAM president, Brian Bwembya, the association said it had received complaints from members of the public regarding certain scenes in the video for the song Budget, which features Frank Ro and Dizmo.

ZAM said it was particularly mindful of concerns raised by parents and guardians, who fear that the content could influence younger audiences who regularly consume Yo Maps’ music.

The association revealed that it had been in active engagement with the artiste and his team since April 26, advising that the video be edited to better align with Zambia’s cultural values and public expectations.

While reaffirming its support for artistic freedom and creative expression, ZAM stressed that artistes must also consider the responsibility that comes with producing content for wide public consumption.

“Yo Maps is one of Zambia’s leading artists whose work reaches millions both locally and internationally. With such influence comes the need to remain mindful of the impact of the brand,” the statement read.

ZAM further indicated that it had reminded the artist’s production team of the importance of reflecting ethical standards and cultural values, particularly within Zambia’s Christian context.

The association said it had also consulted with its parent body, the National Arts Council (NAC), on the matter.

Following these engagements, ZAM provided technical guidance on how the video could be edited directly on YouTube without requiring a full takedown, which could affect viewership metrics.

According to ZAM, the video’s director, Longwe Nyirenda, confirmed awareness of the recommended editing process.

By April 30, production partners indicated that the necessary edits had been completed and efforts to replace the original version were underway. Although an initial upload attempt failed, a second attempt had been made, while an alternative version of the video has already been circulated locally.

ZAM reiterated its commitment to guiding musicians in balancing creative freedom with cultural responsibility, noting that it continues to recognise Yo Maps’ contribution to the growth of the local music industry.

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