Jemax's Revelation Adds Fuel to the 'Ghostwriters' Debate in Zambian Hip Hop

Drifta Trek’s initial comment about “dope ghostwriters” sparked a debate about the use of ghostwriters in the Zambian music industry.
Jemax’s revelation that he wrote Xaven’s hit single, “Ngeyo Behavior,” has reignited the debate.
The role of ghostwriters in Zambian hip hop is a complex issue with no easy answers.

In early November 2022, Zambian rapper Drifta Trek made waves when he praised female rappers for having “dope ghostwriters.” This comment sparked a debate about the use of ghostwriters in the Zambian music industry, with some arguing that it was a legitimate practice, while others felt it was a form of deception.

The debate intensified a year later when fellow rapper Jemax revealed in an interview that he had written the entirety of Xaven’s hit single, “Ngeyo Behavior.” This revelation cast a new light on Drifta Trek’s original comment, leading some to believe that he had been more accurate than initially thought.

Jemax’s confession opened up a floodgate of discussions about the role of ghostwriters in the Zambian hip hop scene. Some argued that the use of ghostwriters was a sign of creativity and innovation, while others maintained that it undermined the authenticity of the music.

The debate over ghostwriters in Zambian hip hop is likely to continue for some time. However, Jemax’s revelation has undoubtedly added a new dimension to the discussion, forcing fans and industry insiders to confront the issue head-on.