Makhadzi's producer, DJ Call Me, has been accused of stealing the instrumentals that eventually became her hit song, Matorokisi.
What a dramatic start to the year for Makhadzi. The Venda wedding songstress is probably just praying for the drama to end so that she and the rest of the country can focus on her music. This week reports emerged that her producer DJ Call Me was being hounded by unsigned artists who were accusing him of stealing the instrumental backing track he used to produce Matorokisi.
The song is arguably Makhadzis biggest at this point in her exciting career, and it's no surprise that anybody who inspired its sound wants the credit they rightfully deserve.
Upcoming muso Jackie Mahlo claims that he produced two songs - Matorokisi and Tshelede Ya Hanna - for DJ Call Me, and by all accounts, he thought he was going to be compensated. To his surprise, the songs went on to become hits while Jackie patiently waited for the day that he would be compensated for his contributions but according to the singer it has not come. And now he is coming after what he believes he is owed.
He vented his frustrations in an interview with Sunday World where he said, "The guy only gave me R50 since we started working together on these sounds. The introduction is also mine and he even used my voice, but he is not giving me anything for my hard work. That is why I have lodged a complaint to their manager and [I am] pursuing the legal route."
He goes on to explain how much he feels like he deserves from DJ Call Me:
“I had expected at least R15 000 because I am really a struggling artist, but them using my sound showed me just what I am capable of. I want my money and credit for the song. I worked hard.”
DJ Call Me has refused to confirm or deny if there is any truth to the claims but he firmly believes that there is no foul play involved here.
Do you think he should be held accountable for failing to take care of his producer?
Read Next: Makhadzi's manager and DJ Call Me also clashed earlier this year
Image Credit: www.instagram.com/makhadzi