Cape Town – Amapiano heavyweight DJ Maphorisa has publicly showcased what he says are R8 million in royalty payouts to artists and producers under his New Money Gang (NMG) Music label, amidst ongoing accusations from some industry players that he has exploited collaborators and withheld earnings.
On social media platform X, Maphorisa — whose real name is Themba Sonnyboy Sekowe shared screenshots of multiple transactions totalling R8 million. Accompanying the post, he wrote: “Things I shouldn’t reveal, but it feels good… it’s the second time I do this. Last time was R5m,” and thanked everyone affiliated with NMG.
In the same message, the producer said his success isn’t just his own, adding: “Shout out to everyone [who has] been a part of NMG artists and producers, thank you. Definitely making more music with you guys. And I pay my taxes,” conveying his intent to be transparent about how revenues are shared.
If Sony cud borrow me a billion mos definitely I will fix the industry 🤭
Things I shouldn’t reveal but fuck it,it feels good n it’s the second time I do this 🤗 last time was R5m
R8m payouts royalties from NMG music S/o to everyone been a part of MNG artists and producers… pic.twitter.com/yd0uFAy8EC
— MadMoney (@DjMaphorisa) January 24, 2026
The social media post immediately reignited debate about fairness and compensation in South Africa’s booming Amapiano scene. Critics have previously questioned whether Maphorisa fairly compensates all artists he works with, especially when tracks become huge hits.
Several artists, including Tebogo “G” Mashego, have taken to platforms like TikTok and Instagram to claim outstanding royalties for songs such as Biri Marung.
Responding to some of those allegations earlier this year, Maphorisa challenged the claims, questioning their basis. “Where do you find the proof of those [claims] that I don’t pay royalties? Who told you that? Did you do research, or did you just hear one small boy say that and trend?” he said about Mashego’s accusations, adding that the hit in question was not written by the accuser.
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Picture: Instagram/@djmaphorisa
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
