Music
Rea Gopane’s AI experiment Suka divides artists and fans
Rea Gopane’s AI-curated song Suka has become one of the most talked-about releases in South Africa’s music space this year.
Released a month ago, the track has been widely embraced by fans, many of whom have labelled it a hit.
However, its success has also reignited debates around artificial intelligence in music, particularly among fellow artists and producers.
The conversation gained momentum on Thursday after media personality Sol Phenduka hyped the song on X, writing, “This song is big, people love it. Mara only 3 minutes aowa Rea!!!” His comment quickly attracted responses from some of the industry’s biggest names.
DJ Maphorisa weighed in with a brief but pointed reply, stating, “It’s AI.”
While the comment was short, it sparked backlash from online users, with several accusing the producer of being dismissive or even jealous of Rea’s success.
Singer Zee Nxumalo also joined the discussion, raising a question that resonated with many users: “So the AI music generates income as well?”
Most responses confirmed that it does, with one user explaining, “Yes, and will continue to as long as people stream AI-generated songs on platforms like Spotify.”
So the AI music generates income as well?
— Zee Nxumalo (@ZeeNxumaloZA) January 22, 2026
Veteran DJ Euphonik further added fuel to the debate by replying to Sol Phenduka’s post with, “Use AI to extend it,” a comment that divided opinions and deepened conversations around creativity, ownership, and the future of music production.
Use AI to extend it. https://t.co/OSQZjmmgMk
— Euphonik™♛ (@euphonik) January 22, 2026
Meanwhile, Rea Gopane, who is no stranger to controversy due to his outspoken podcast takes and public shots at celebrities has found himself enjoying even greater visibility thanks to Suka.
Whether intentional or not, the AI-generated track has placed him at the centre of an industry-wide discussion.
With the spotlight firmly on him, many are now wondering whether this marks the beginning of more AI-driven releases from Rea, or if Suka is simply the start of a much bigger conversation.”