The controversy surrounding Yo Maps’ trending song and music video “Budget” continues to divide opinion across Zambia, with legendary rapper Macky 2 and US-based Zambian artist OC both coming out strongly in support of the singer.
As social media debates intensify over scenes in the video that some groups claim are inappropriate, Macky 2 has described Yo Maps as one of the most misunderstood artists of this generation, saying the backlash ignores the singer’s positive contributions to society.
In an emotional statement shared online, Macky 2 admitted that he normally avoids commenting on controversial matters but felt compelled to speak because of how Yo Maps is being portrayed.
“It’s heartbreaking to see Yo Maps painted as the villain when, in truth, he’s one of the most genuine souls to rise from this generation,” Macky 2 wrote.
The award-winning rapper said Yo Maps is not reckless as some people are suggesting and stressed that the singer understands the responsibility that comes with influence and fame.
Macky 2 praised Yo Maps for using his success to uplift others, revealing that he has personally witnessed the artist sponsor young people to college, support upcoming musicians with free collaborations, buy his parents a car, and build a house for his grandmother.
“The list of his quiet kindnesses is longer than any controversy,” he said.
While acknowledging that Yo Maps is not perfect and has made questionable decisions at times, Macky 2 insisted that the singer’s good deeds far outweigh his mistakes.
“Let’s not vilify a young man who has given so much. Let’s give him grace. Let’s learn to separate a moment from a legacy,” he added.
The rapper ended his message by encouraging Yo Maps to stay strong amid criticism.
“It Doesn’t Get Easier, You Get Stronger And Wiser,” he wrote.
Meanwhile, OC also weighed in on the debate, accusing critics of exaggerating the issue and applying double standards in the entertainment industry.
The US-based artist argued that there was “nothing inappropriate” in the “Budget” video and said the controversial scene being discussed online was being blown out of proportion.
“Honestly you guys are taking this issue too far. There’s nothing inappropriate in Maps Video,” OC wrote.
He compared the current outrage to past incidents where international music channels such as Channel O faced restrictions in Zambia due to moral and cultural concerns.
OC further questioned why Yo Maps was receiving heavy criticism while other artists accused of producing more explicit content continue to operate freely without public backlash.
The outspoken musician also accused society of hypocrisy, saying many people selectively enforce moral standards depending on who is involved.
“Every time one of us is elevating we begin to see a problem with it,” he stated.
The “Budget” music video has sparked heated national debate in recent days, attracting reactions from artists, fans, church leaders, music industry stakeholders, and the Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM).
Despite the criticism, support for Yo Maps continues to grow online, with many fans praising fellow musicians for defending the singer during one of the biggest entertainment controversies currently dominating Zambia’s music scene.