A routine press briefing at the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (Samro) turned chaotic on September 10, as frustrated musicians stormed the stage demanding long-overdue royalties.
The conference, held at the Garden Court Hotel in Milpark, was initially meant to address internal disputes and the recent suspension of COO Mpho Mofikoe, who faced allegations of exposing fraudulent activities. But the spotlight quickly shifted as artists vocalised their anger over delayed payments.
Voices of Frustration
Among those leading the protest were household names like Mercy Pakela, famous for her hit “Ayashisa Amateki,” Sithembile Zungu of the iconic 80s group Dalom Kids, and veteran William Mthethwa, known for “Give Me Your Love” and “Cost Of Living Is Too High.”
Mthethwa, a Samro member for 50 years with 564 registered songs, claimed the organisation owes him a staggering R2 million. Mercy Pakela criticised the board for a lack of transparency:
“What they are doing is affecting our lives. There’s a lot of corruption at Samro, and when people point out that the board has not been honest, they are then sidelined or kicked out. It’s not about us any more, but the truth is, Samro belongs to us.”
Other members, including Tshepo Mashiane, shared similar frustrations. Mashiane revealed he had to re-register himself after discovering he was removed from Samro’s system, alleging that some publishers on the board are diverting funds meant for ordinary musicians.
Samro Responds
In response, Nicholas Maweni, Samro’s board chairperson, acknowledged the disruptions but defended the organisation:
“We distribute millions of rand to members. Some artists’ music is not being played on the radio, which affects their royalties.”
CEO Annabelle Lebethe confirmed that board procedures had been properly followed in reinstating certain members and reiterated that Samro remains operational, continuing music licensing and royalty distributions:
“We are working in the best interest of our members. It’s our responsibility and obligation.”
Financial Growth Amid Controversy
The tension comes as Samro faces allegations of R3.4 million in corruption and mismanagement, currently under police investigation. Despite this, the organisation recently reported record-breaking financial growth:
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Total Company Licence Revenue increased by 15.2%, rising from R593.7 million in 2023 to R683.8 million in 2024.
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Samro distributed R429 million to members in 2023/2024, a 63.8% increase from the previous year.
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Strategic targets have been adjusted, aiming for R1.2 billion in revenue by 2028.
Social media erupted during and after the press briefing, with many fans backing the musicians’ call for transparency. The protest highlights a growing concern among South African artists about fairness in royalty distribution and the accountability of music rights organisations.
While Samro continues to assert that its financial systems are sound and growing, the confrontation underscores a key tension: artists want assurance that their work is valued and compensated properly. For many, this chaotic conference was a public reminder that even established institutions must answer to the very creators they exist to serve.
{Source: IOL}
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