South African singer and songwriter Cici, born Busisiwe Thwala, has officially stepped into the ongoing Hamba Juba royalty saga, confirming that she too has not received her rightful share from the hit single.
In a hard-hitting press statement, the star made it clear that despite a signed split sheet outlining payments, she and her company, The House of Thom, are still waiting for their dues two years after the song’s release.
Cici’s legal representatives released a detailed statement addressing the dispute, making it clear that both the artist and The House of Thom have been denied their agreed-upon royalties and master share entitlements.
The statement read in part:
“It has come to our clients’ attention that concerns have been publicly ventilated by JL SA, Lady Amar, and Murumba Pitch in respect of the musical work Hamba Juba. For the avoidance of doubt, our clients have not, to date, been placed in receipt of their rightful and proportionate royalty and master share entitlements arising from the aforesaid work. This is notwithstanding the fact that a duly executed split sheet, reflecting the proprietary and financial entitlements of all contributors, was concluded and signed by all relevant stakeholders prior to the commercial release of the song.”
The legal team emphasised that the split sheet created a binding obligation for fair and timely payment — an obligation that, according to them, has been breached.
Cici’s lawyers confirmed that the matter has already been escalated for mediation through the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO). If that fails, they warned that the star is prepared to launch full legal proceedings to recover outstanding payments, including costs and interest.
“Should such process not yield a satisfactory resolution, our clients shall, without further notice, institute formal legal proceedings to enforce their rights, recover all outstanding sums, and claim any ancillary relief deemed appropriate,” the statement added.
By going public, Cici has made it clear she is determined to protect her rights and those of her collaborators. Her move also reinforces growing calls within the industry for better transparency, fair play, and accountability when it comes to royalty distribution.
