By Rorisang Modiba
Itumeleng Bokaba, former Rhythm City star, revealed on TikTok that she received only 59 cents in royalties for her contribution to Kwesta’s 2016 hit Mayibabo. The song also featured DJ Maphorisa, DJ Bucks, and Okmalumkoolkat.
Bokaba shared a screenshot of her royalty payment, explaining that she fought for a fair payout but lost the battle.
“I fought for that song, but I didn’t win. You don’t win all the battles in life. It’s fine. I’m trying to launch my own music, so it’s okay. I will get there,” she said.
This revelation has sparked outrage on social media, with many criticising the South African music industry.
One Twitter user wrote: “Can we talk about how her chorus is the only thing I remember from the song? The rest I can’t recall. No, the South African music industry has serious demons, struu!”
DJ Maphorisa has also faced scrutiny over similar issues.
In early September, Samthing Soweto opened up about the credits for his album Isiphithiphiti, after Maphorisa claimed ownership of the master recordings.
Samthing admitted that he once believed his music wouldn’t sell without Maphorisa as producer, so he allowed him to take credit.
However, he clarified that Maphorisa didn’t actually produce any part of the album, revealing that Mas Musiq and Kabza De Small handled 40% to 60% of the production.
Itumeleng Bokaba, former Rhythm City star, revealed on TikTok that she received only 59 cents in royalties for her part in Kwesta’s 2016 hit “Mayibabo”.
The song also featured DJ Maphorisa, DJ Bucks, and Okmalumkoolkat.
Bokaba shared a screenshot of her royalty payment, saying she fought for a fair payout but lost.
“I fought for that song, but I didn’t win. You don’t win all the battles in life. It’s fine. I’m trying to launch my own music, so it’s okay. I will get there,” she said.
This news angered many on social media, with people criticising the South African music industry.
One Twitter user wrote: “Can we talk about how her chorus is the only thing I remember from the song? The rest I can’t recall. No, the South African music industry has serious demons, struu!”
DJ Maphorisa has been in the spotlight lately for a similar issue.
In early September, Samthing Soweto spoke about the credits for his album “Isiphithiphiti” after Maphorisa claimed ownership of the master recordings.
Samthing admitted he once thought his music wouldn’t sell without Maphorisa as producer, so he let him take credit.
However, he clarified that Maphorisa didn’t actually produce any part of the album. He revealed that Mas Musiq and Kabza De Small did 40% to 60% of the production.
Pictured above: Itumeleng Bokaba.
Source: X
