Singer Joy Odiete, popularly known as Jodie, has revealed that she has never earned any money from her hit song Kuchi Kuchi, despite its massive success and international recognition.
Jodie made the disclosure during an appearance on Yanga FM, where she opened up about the song’s success, her struggles with royalty payments, and the challenges of raising her son, who has special needs.
According to the singer, although Kuchi Kuchi became a global hit, she has not received a single naira from it, alleging that her ex-husband continues to collect the royalties.
“‘Kuchi Kuchi’ blow worldwide but I no see one naira from that song till today. Na my ex-husband wey abandon me with my baby still dey collect the royalties,” she said.
“I no dey like tok di mata because no solution, but if e get how u fit help me get my rights back, abeg reach out.”
Jodie explained that she personally funded the recording of the song and later hired a lawyer in an attempt to recover her royalties, but her efforts were unsuccessful.
She also spoke about her marriage to filmmaker David Nnaji, stating that they separated when their son was just two months old. The marriage ended amid claims by her former husband that she was mentally unstable, an allegation Jodie said she found ironic given that she was left to single-handedly raise their child.
The singer revealed that her son was born with conditions linked to cerebral palsy and a rare brain disorder, noting that caring for a child with special needs has been both emotionally and physically demanding.
“It hasn’t been easy, but there are good days and bad days. I’m grateful to God for strength,” she said.
Jodie added that her experience has pushed her to use her platform to advocate for parents of children with special needs, stressing the importance of understanding, empathy, and support for affected families.
Despite her challenges, the singer said she has grown stronger and more confident since the release of Kuchi Kuchi. She also appealed to the public not to attack her former husband online, stating that he has moved on with his life and that she is focused on raising her child and finding peace.
