Music legend Yvonne Chaka Chaka has expressed her disappointment and hurt over not receiving royalties for her contribution to the song “Umqombothi”. The song, which was released in 1987 on Chaka Chaka’s album “Thank You Mr DJ”, was composed by Sello ‘Chicco’ Twala and Attie van Wyk.
Chaka Chaka claims that she co-composed some elements of the song, including the Nawu! Nawu! Madoda and Everybody parts, and has never received a cent from the project. She believes that she should have been credited as a co-composer of the song.
However, Chicco Twala disputes Chaka Chaka’s claim, stating that she earned millions from live concerts and that performers typically make 90% of the money made from a hit song, while songwriters make the remaining 10%.
The controversy surrounding “Umqombothi” has sparked a debate about the music industry and the rights of artists.
