From Amapiano Smash to Royalties Scandal
Hamba Juba, the 2023 amapiano hit credited to Murumba Pitch and Lady Amar featuring JL SA and Cici, has turned from a viral anthem into one of the most controversial royalty disputes in South African music. Despite millions of streams on Spotify and millions more views on YouTube, key contributors say they haven’t received a cent.
JL SA Names Sfiso Ndlovu as the Culprit
Producer JL SA, who crafted the beat, has now publicly accused Sfiso Ndlovu — a podcaster, label owner and artist manager — of being the one who “ate the money.” JL SA claims Ndlovu positioned himself as an intermediary in the song’s distribution and allegedly withheld royalties meant for the artists.
Who is Sfiso Ndlovu?
- Podcaster: Co-host of Piano Pulse, an amapiano culture podcast under the Podcast and Chill Network, known for its unfiltered commentary and controversies.
- Artist Manager: Has worked in the management of amapiano talent, with ties to the business side of the music scene.
- Label Owner: Runs Lea Records, which has been involved in releasing and managing local music.
A Podcaster No Stranger to Controversy
Ndlovu has previously made headlines:
- In 2024, he accused Uncle Vinny of codeine abuse on Piano Pulse, prompting a R500,000 defamation claim. He later issued a public apology and retraction.
- Earlier this year, he and his co-hosts faced backlash after controversial comments about rapper Gigi Lamayne, sparking a confrontation with Sizwe Alakine.
These incidents have built Ndlovu’s reputation as a provocative figure, but JL SA’s new allegation is the most serious yet — moving beyond commentary into direct financial misconduct.
Lady Amar and Cici Still Unpaid
Both Lady Amar and Cici — through her label, House of Thomm — maintain they have not received royalties. House of Thomm, which claims 50% ownership of the master, has already engaged lawyers. The accusation against Ndlovu adds another layer to the unfolding legal and reputational battle.
Silence From Ndlovu and Murumba Pitch
As of now, Sfiso Ndlovu has not issued a public response to JL SA’s claims. Murumba Pitch, whose name is on the official release, has also remained silent, leaving fans frustrated and demanding accountability.
Industry Experts Warn of Middlemen
Music business analysts say the case underscores the risks of informal deals and unverified intermediaries in the amapiano ecosystem. Without clear contracts, transparent accounting, and direct registrations with royalty-collecting societies, artists are vulnerable to exploitation.
What Happens Next
With lawyers already involved and public pressure mounting, the Hamba Juba royalties saga appears far from over. Whether Sfiso Ndlovu will respond or face legal action remains to be seen — but for now, amapiano’s biggest hit has become amapiano’s biggest cautionary tale.
