Amapiano pioneer and music mogul DJ Maphorisa (Themba Sekowe) has sent shockwaves through the local music industry after revealing the massive scale of his financial contributions to his collaborators. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the “Madumane” hitmaker announced that he has disbursed over R8 million in royalties to artists and producers signed to or affiliated with his New Money Gang (NMG) record label.
The announcement comes at a time when the debate over royalty transparency and artist exploitation is at an all-time high in South Africa. Maphorisa’s move appears to be a direct rebuttal to critics who have previously questioned his business dealings with rising stars.
Inside the “New Money Gang” Empire
The R8 million payout isn’t just about one song; it reflects the massive commercial success of the NMG stable. Here is why the numbers are reaching such heights:
- Streaming Dominance: NMG artists regularly top the Spotify and Apple Music “Most Streamed” lists in South Africa, where high volume translates into significant royalty checks.
- Global Publishing: Maphorisa has been vocal about ensuring his producers understand publishing rights, which allows them to earn from radio play, sync deals, and international performances.
- Diverse Roster: The payout reportedly benefits a wide array of talent, from vocalists and “ghost” producers to the headline acts that tour the world.
“I’m not just a DJ; I’m a businessman. I want to see my brothers and sisters eating from this music,” Maphorisa noted in a follow-up engagement.
Why This Matters for SA Music
For years, the South African music industry has been plagued by stories of legendary artists dying in poverty despite having hits. Maphorisa’s public disclosure of these figures serves a dual purpose:
- Brand Building: It cements New Money Gang as a lucrative destination for young talent.
- Standard Setting: It puts pressure on other major labels to be equally transparent about their payout structures.
