Kenyan singer Willy Paul has taken an unexpected step back from confrontation, turning a heated online row into a moment of admiration.
Just a day after being accused by Arbantone star VJ Patelo of failing to pay for a music video appearance, the controversial artist has instead chosen to praise his accuser.
On Wednesday, Willy Paul shared a post on Instagram calling Patelo and his wife, Diana Dee, his “current favourites,” applauding their humour and originality.
“Patelo and Diana Dee are my current favourites,” he wrote. “Ni Visanga Tu Za Over 18 Sio Under 18. Look at them, Manze. #ngunga Friday.”
The singer highlighted their ability to entertain a mature audience, surprising many who expected a sharp rebuttal to Patelo’s public attack.
A Row Gone Viral
The tension began a day earlier when Patelo posted a strongly worded TikTok video accusing Willy Paul of unprofessional behaviour.
He said he had been promised payment for a video shoot but never received it.
“If you wanted it to be a favour, you should have said so,” Patelo said in the clip, which quickly spread across social media.
He went further, branding Willy Paul “foolish” and claiming that such conduct is why “Tanzanian artistes look down on Kenyans.”
Patelo also dragged fellow singer Bahati into the fray, urging both artists to “go back to gospel” if they could not act with professionalism.
A Calculated Olive Branch?
Willy Paul’s softer tone has sparked questions. Was it a genuine attempt to reconcile or a shrewd acknowledgment of Patelo’s growing influence in Arbantone circles?
The singer has been known for courting controversy, often blending outrage with showmanship. His latest move, some observers argue, may be as much about strategy as sincerity.
Fans React
Online, reactions were mixed but largely upbeat.
“Msanii anaelewa game,” one fan wrote on Instagram, praising Willy Paul for understanding the music industry.
Another added: “Good job Pozze,” while others speculated about a possible collaboration.
For now, the dispute appears to have cooled. But whether this signals reconciliation or a temporary pause in hostilities remains to be seen.
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