Makhadzi Accuses Former Label of Secretly Collecting Her Royalties
management, Open Mic Productions, claiming the label has been secretly collecting her royalties without her knowledge.
The award-winning singer, who has become a household name with hits such as Ghanama and Murahu, took to social media to share her frustration, revealing that she only recently discovered that her publishing royalties have been diverted through questionable arrangements allegedly set up by her former team.
Allegations Against Open Mic
In a statement shared online, Makhadzi accused Open Mic Productions of creating a separate company in partnership with another entity, through which her royalties were allegedly being collected from SAMRO (Southern African Music Rights Organisation).
She wrote:
“Hi Admomo ukhala akupheli. I just found out that my old management of Openmic opened a new company in partnership with Mokima (Virgin Music), collecting my publishing royalties on my behalf from SAMRO without my knowledge… At this point I don’t know what to do with myself.”
Her claims suggest that the singer may have been deprived of a significant portion of her earnings for an extended period, reigniting debates about exploitation in the South African music industry.
A Pattern of Disputes
This is not the first time Open Mic Productions has faced allegations of unfair practices. The label was previously involved in a high-profile legal battle with Nomcebo Zikode, who accused the company of withholding royalties from the global hit Jerusalema. That case sparked widespread outrage and drew attention to how artists are often short-changed by management and labels.
Fans and Industry React
Makhadzi’s revelation has already drawn massive attention online, with fans expressing anger and disappointment that yet another prominent artist appears to have fallen victim to alleged exploitation. Many industry peers have voiced their support, urging her to take legal action to reclaim what is rightfully hers.
Some users noted the similarities between her case and Nomcebo’s, suggesting that structural reforms may be needed to protect South African artists from contractual and royalty disputes.
The Way Forward
At the time of writing, Open Mic Productions has not issued a formal response to Makhadzi’s claims. However, industry observers believe that the singer may consider pursuing legal action to recover her royalties and hold her former management accountable.
For now, Makhadzi’s revelations have once again spotlighted the challenges faced by South African musicians in asserting their rights within the industry, raising questions about transparency, accountability, and artist protection.
🎶 Fans continue to rally behind Makhadzi, urging her to “fight for her worth” as she navigates yet another storm in her career.
