Grammy Award-winning artist Nomcebo Zikode has broken her silence following a disappointing ruling by the High Court in Pretoria in her legal dispute with Open Mic Productions and Africori SA. The ruling, handed down on Friday, 9 May 2025, did not go in her favour — and she’s not holding back about how she feels.
In a powerful official statement released by her record label, Emazulwini Productions, Nomcebo expressed deep disappointment and concern over the judgment.
“Nomcebo Zikode and her record label, Emazulwini Productions, are deeply disappointed by the ruling handed down… At the centre of this dispute is a glaring and distressing reality: Nomcebo has not received a single cent in recording royalties from Open Mic Productions for her iconic contribution to the global hit song Jerusalema.”
She highlighted how, despite her voice and talent being at the heart of the world-famous anthem Jerusalema, she continues to be sidelined and left without the earnings she rightfully deserves. The hit, which became a global sensation during the pandemic, brought joy to millions — but, as Nomcebo says, it brought her nothing financially.
“Despite her pivotal role in a cultural milestone that united and inspired millions across the globe, she continues to face a lack of transparency and meaningful accountability from those who have profited from her work.”
Nomcebo accuses Open Mic Productions of deliberately hiding the revenue details and blocking her progress in the music industry, while still benefitting from her success.
“They have systematically sought to downplay her contribution and obstruct her professional progress while continuing to benefit from her creative labour.”
Her legal team is currently studying the judgment, and she confirmed that an appeal is being considered. Nomcebo believes this case isn’t just about her, but about the treatment of many African artists who are locked into unfair deals and denied their rightful earnings.
“This case represents more than a contractual disagreement — it is about the rights of an artist to be acknowledged, compensated, and respected for their work.”
In a caption accompanying her statement on social media, Nomcebo shared an emotional reflection:
“A song that had once given the world hope has in turn, broken me. I still have not seen a single cent, and I am still fighting for my rights. But I will keep on fighting through this pain and exhaustion because we cannot continue excusing the exploitation of artists in this beautiful country. Aluta Continua!!!”
