Nando’s responds to Nota Baloyi’s claims over Kwesta ad song rights

by Zintle Mdaka

Nando’s has denied copyright infringement claims over the use of Spirit, a song by multi-award-winning rapper Kwesta, in their viral campaign.

This comes after the fast food chain used Kwesta’s song sampled from Brenda Fassie’s music for their advertisement. Controversial music executive Nhlamulo Nota Baloyi alleged that Nando’s made use of the song without being granted permission and licence to do so.

Through his company Urbantainment, Nota claims he holds publishing rights to the sample and demands R850,000, threatening lawsuits against Nando’s, Kwesta, and his manager.

Rejecting the claims made by Nota, Nando’s issued a statement citing that they secured licenses via Downtown Music Publishing Africa.

“We are aware of the allegations of unlawfully using the ‘Spirit’ track. These allegations are completely incorrect. A letter addressing these allegations was sent to Mr Baloyi (Nota) in November 2025, to which we have never received a response,” read the statement.

Nando’s also said that their process of securing the license to use Spirit was transparent and is fully aligned with all legal requirements.

“Any additional matters contesting ownership of the track rest with the alleged relevant music publishing parties and are to be resolved between those parties,” they added.

In response to the statement, Nota said:

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Also see: DJ Maphorisa breaks silence on Ngud’ royalties dispute with Nota Baloyi