Award-winning South African producer Master KG is set to appear in court in November 2025 over a long-standing copyright dispute regarding his global hit, Jerusalema. The legal battle, initiated by DJ Charmza (real name Chris Chauke) in 2022, has been ongoing for more than five years. Charmza claims that he was the original creator of the song but never received credit or compensation.
With Jerusalema having earned millions in royalties worldwide, the case has drawn massive attention, and Charmza is now seeking justice for what he believes is his rightful share.
ALSO READ: Candice Modiselle Ties the Knot in a Stunning Traditional Wedding
The Origins of the Copyright Dispute
The controversy dates back to August 2019, when Master KG reportedly invited DJ Charmza to a studio session in Midrand, Johannesburg. According to Charmza, he:
✔️ Produced the beat
✔️ Arranged Nomcebo Zikode’s vocals
✔️ Left the session before Master KG arrived
After completing the work, Charmza returned to Limpopo and later found out that the song had been released without any formal agreement or acknowledgment of his contributions.
Charmza alleges that he was never compensated for his work and that Master KG and Open Mic Productions profited from his creativity without crediting him.
Why Has the Case Taken So Long?
Although the lawsuit was filed in 2022, the case has faced multiple delays. Master KG was originally scheduled to appear in court in May 2024, but neither he nor his former record label, Open Mic Productions, made themselves available to set a trial date.
Charmza’s legal team has now finalized preparations, and the matter will be heard in court from 17 to 25 November 2025.
“I want justice and to prove that I made the song and deserve credit for my work,” said Charmza.
What’s at Stake?
Charmza’s lawsuit reportedly involves a claim worth over R100 million, making this one of South Africa’s biggest copyright battles in the music industry. If he wins, it could have major financial and legal consequences for Master KG and Open Mic Productions.
✔️ Potential Outcomes:
- If Charmza proves his case, he could be entitled to a significant portion of the royalties earned by Jerusalema.
- Master KG may be forced to acknowledge Charmza’s role and provide retroactive compensation.
- The case could set a legal precedent for future music copyright disputes in South Africa.
DJ Charmza in Hiding Due to Safety Concerns
With millions at stake, Charmza has expressed fear for his safety.
“No one can know my whereabouts until the matter is settled. This is a big case worth over R100 million,” he told ZiMoja.
This statement has sparked speculation about possible threats or intimidation surrounding the case, adding another layer of drama to the dispute.
A Growing Trend in the Music Industry?
This is not the first time a South African artist has been embroiled in a copyright battle. Many producers and songwriters have spoken out about:
- Uncredited contributions to hit songs
- Lack of formal contracts
- Royalties being withheld
The case raises important questions about how music ownership is handled in South Africa and whether legal protections are strong enough for creators.
With Master KG expected to defend his ownership of the song, the case could expose how major hits are produced, credited, and monetized in the industry.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming trial in November 2025 will be a defining moment for South African music copyright law. If Charmza wins, it could reshape how artists protect their creative work.
Will Master KG successfully prove that the well-known song is solely his creation? Or will the court rule in favor of Charmza, forcing a major industry shift in music rights and producer recognition?
Stay tuned as this high-profile case unfolds.
