Rising Star Behind “Biri Marung”
Tebogo G Mashego, a fast-emerging amapiano artist, shot to fame with his hit single “Biri Marung.” The track, released under DJ Maphorisa’s stable in partnership with Sony Music, earned massive streams and cemented his position as a rising force in the genre.
Stranded in Nigeria
Earlier this month, Mashego travelled to Nigeria for a performance. But upon arrival, the deal allegedly collapsed, leaving him stranded without accommodation or funds. His frustration boiled over when he went live on social media, revealing that despite having a hit song, he was broke and unable to get back home.
Explosive Accusations Against Maphorisa and Sony
In a series of viral videos, Mashego accused DJ Maphorisa and Sony Music of withholding his royalties from “Biri Marung.” At one point, he claimed he was owed as much as R23 million. He further alleged that the industry was exploiting young artists by locking them into unfair deals.
Public Pleas for Help
Mashego appealed directly to fans, asking for donations to help fund a return ticket. His emotional videos—ranging from angry outbursts to tearful rants—quickly spread online, sparking heated debates about exploitation in the amapiano industry and the treatment of upcoming stars.
DJ Karri Comes to the Rescue
Amid mounting public pressure, DJ Karri stepped in to book a flight for Mashego. He confirmed the booking publicly, announcing that Mashego would be leaving Nigeria on 20 September 2025. The intervention shifted the tone of the story from desperation to relief, with supporters thanking Karri for the gesture.
Industry Silence and Unanswered Questions
While Mashego returned safely to South Africa, the core issues remain unresolved. DJ Maphorisa and Sony Music have yet to issue detailed responses to the explosive claims. The saga has sparked wider conversations about royalty transparency, contracts, and the vulnerability of emerging artists in the amapiano scene.
What’s Next?
Mashego has vowed to continue speaking out, insisting that his case highlights deeper problems in the industry. Whether his accusations will lead to legal disputes, public statements from Maphorisa or Sony, or systemic changes remains to be seen.
