THEY started together as band members and later became husband and wife . . .
Now, Mandla Ngcongwane and Tumi Masemola’s marriage has been hit by allegations of trouble.
Sunday Sun sources said Tumi Masemola has been spotted several times without her wedding ring.
“On Wednesday, she performed on SABC2’sAfro Cafe without the ring,” said one source.
Another source said their marriage ship was sinking.
This source claimed problems started when Tumi started pursuing her solo career.
But Tumi said this is news to her: “Oh wow! I haven’t been wearing my engagement ring because I’ve lost weight. We’re married traditionally. We’re fine, I’m fine, he’s fine.”
Both sources are sticking to their guns, saying Tumi’s marriage woes may have been caused by the long hours she was working on her solo album.
The second source further alleged Tumi has been spotted with an unnamed Nigerian guy at a Jozi recording studio.
“The Nigerian introduced Tumi as his girlfriend!” said the source, then added Mandla has also been spotted with women.
And another source claimed: “At some point he appeared cosy with some chicks, but we’re not sure if he was dating them.”
Tumi has left the Gang of Instrumental to pursue her solo career. She’s featured artists like Nadia Nakai and Kwesta.
A third source told Sunday Sun:
“These claims might be a brand thing – to show she’s her own person. She’s married to Mandla, but she can’t be linked to him in every aspect of her career!”
Tumi added: “So, are you going to print this? Please bear in mind that we have parents and both they’re not in the entertainment industry.
“They won’t understand you’re selling gossip.
“I’ll be getting phone calls from my family because of stupid allegations that aren’t true.”
Mandla was not available for comment.