Yo Maps Withdraws 7 Nominations from 2025 Kwacha Music Awards, Chooses to Sponsor Instead
Chart-topping artist makes unprecedented move amid industry controversy over award fairness
In a surprising development that has sent shockwaves through the Zambian music industry, Yo Maps has officially withdrawn his impressive seven nominations from the 2025 Kwacha Music Awards, choosing instead to sponsor two key categories through his record label, Olios Records.
The Withdrawal Decision
Yo Maps was nominated across major categories including Album of the Year (My Hero), Best International Achievement, Most Conscious Song (My Hero), Best Collaboration (Peace of Mind ft. Roberto), Best Mainstream/Pop Song (Mr and Mrs), Best Male Artist, and Song of the Year (Mr and Mrs).
However, in what industry insiders are calling an unprecedented move, the chart-topping star has stepped away from competition to become an industry investor.
Official Statement from Olios Records
“In 2025, our priority is not to seek nomination but to contribute directly to the growth of the industry. We are proud to announce that Olios Records will sponsor two categories at this year’s awards: Best Upcoming Artist – Central Province and Best Male Artist,” the management team announced.
Connection to Recent Controversy
This decision comes just days after fellow artist Chile One MrZambia fired shots at the Kwacha Music Awards over concerns about Yo Maps’ proposed sponsorship deal. In our previous report, Chile One criticized the awards organization, stating it would be a “sign of disrespect” if an active artist’s record label were allowed to sponsor categories, raising concerns about bias and award credibility.
Chile One’s famous “Tatwapaya Saana” statement highlighted fears that allowing active artists to fund categories could compromise the integrity of the awards. The controversy sparked heated debates about fairness in the Zambian music industry.
Industry Impact and Response
Strategic Move or Damage Control?
Industry analysts are divided on whether Yo Maps’ withdrawal represents:
- A strategic pivot to support industry growth
- A response to mounting pressure following Chile One’s criticism
- A mature approach to avoiding conflicts of interest
Sponsorship Details
Olios Records will specifically sponsor the “Best Upcoming Artist – Central Province” and “Best Male Artist” categories, with the latter being particularly significant as Yo Maps was himself nominated in this category.
Industry Reactions
Mixed Responses from Stakeholders:
Supporters view this as:
- A selfless contribution to industry development
- Leadership in supporting emerging artists
- A mature response to controversy
Critics question whether:
- The withdrawal admission of potential conflict of interest
- This sets a concerning precedent for future awards
- The timing suggests the controversy influenced the decision
The Broader Implications
For the Kwacha Music Awards: This situation has forced the awards organization to confront questions about:
- Sponsorship policies involving active artists
- Transparency in award processes
- Balancing commercial growth with credibility
For the Industry: The controversy highlights growing pains as the Zambian music industry evolves:
- Increased commercial investment opportunities
- Need for clearer governance structures
- Balance between artist competition and industry support
What This Means Moving Forward
Yo Maps’ New Role: Yo Maps transitions from nominee to industry investor, cementing his role not only as one of Zambia’s leading artists but also as a force dedicated to empowering the next generation of musicians.
Award Credibility: The Kwacha Music Awards now face the challenge of maintaining credibility while navigating the complex relationships between artists, sponsors, and award integrity.
Industry Expert Analysis
This unprecedented situation raises important questions about the future of music awards in Zambia:
- How should awards handle sponsorship from active participants?
- What policies need to be established to prevent conflicts of interest?
- Can commercial growth coexist with award transparency?
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 Kwacha Music Awards approach, all eyes will be on:
- How other nominated artists respond
- Whether new sponsorship guidelines will be established
- The public’s reaction to these industry changes
The Yo Maps withdrawal represents more than just one artist’s decision—it reflects the growing complexity of the Zambian music industry as it matures and faces new challenges around governance, transparency, and commercial relationships.
This developing story continues to unfold as the industry grapples with balancing artistic recognition, commercial interests, and maintaining the integrity that has made the Kwacha Music Awards a respected platform for Zambian musical talent.
The controversy, which began with Chile One’s criticism and now culminates in Yo Maps’ withdrawal, may ultimately lead to positive changes in how the industry handles such conflicts in the future.
