ZAM Engages YO MAPS Over Video Concerns
By Arnold Tutu
The Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM) has engaged artist YO MAPS and his production team following public concern over scenes in his latest music video for the song “Budget”.
In a statement issued by ZAM President BRIAN BWEMBYA, the association said the concerns relate to content in the video, which features FRANK RO and DIZMO, that some viewers have described as culturally inappropriate within the Zambian context.
Mr. BWEMBYA said ZAM has been in contact with YO MAPS and his team since April 26, 2026, advising that the video be edited to align with the country’s cultural values and public expectations.
He said the association had taken note of concerns from parents and guardians, who fear that some scenes may influence children who regularly consume the artist’s content.
Mr. BWEMBYA said while ZAM supports artistic freedom and creative expression, artists have a responsibility to consider the impact of their work on the public, particularly given the wide reach and influence of leading performers such as YO MAPS.
He added that ZAM has also engaged the National Arts Council -NAC, with both bodies working to guide the artist on appropriate steps.
Mr. BWEMBYA said ZAM has provided technical guidance to YO MAPS’ team on how to edit the video directly on YouTube without removing it entirely, in order to preserve its viewership.
He said the video’s director, LONGWE NYIRENDA, professionally known as DIRECTOR LO, has confirmed awareness of the recommended editing process.
Meanwhile, OLIOS RECORDS’ production partner, REEL STUDIOS, informed ZAM that the required edits have been completed, and that efforts to replace the original version are underway after an initial upload attempt was unsuccessful.
Mr. BWEMBYA said an alternative version of the video has already been circulated locally as the team awaits completion of the upload process.
The association said it will continue guiding its members to produce content that reflects ethical standards and the country’s cultural values.
ZAM is the statutory body mandated to regulate the music industry in Zambia under the National Arts Council Act.
