DJ Maphorisa Breaks Silence on a public dispute that has dominated South African entertainment conversations for weeks. The award-winning producer and DJ has addressed claims linked to the hit song Biri Marung, responding to allegations of unpaid royalties and public disrespect from a younger creative.
Speaking during an Instagram livestream, Maphorisa shared his side of the story, pushing back against viral accusations while reflecting on the emotional toll of the saga.
What Sparked the Biri Marung Controversy
The controversy began after Tebogo G Mashego posted viral videos accusing DJ Maphorisa of owing him millions in royalties linked to Biri Marung. The claims spread fast across TikTok and X, igniting debates around artist exploitation in the local music industry.
South Africa’s music sector remains sensitive to royalty disputes. According to SAMRO, many creators still struggle to understand ownership, splits, and publishing rights. This context amplified public interest in the allegations.
DJ Maphorisa Breaks Silence on Royalty Claims
DJ Maphorisa Breaks Silence by directly denying claims that he withholds royalties from artists. During the livestream, he questioned the lack of evidence behind the accusations.
“Where do you find proof of those claims that I don’t pay royalties?” he asked. “Did you do research, or did you hear one small boy say that and trend?”
Maphorisa stated that Mashego did not write Biri Marung. He credited the song’s writing to an artist named Ego, explaining that the release aligned with TikTok momentum rather than formal authorship.
Key points from Maphorisa’s response include:
- He rejected claims of unpaid royalties.
- He stated Mashego did not contribute as a songwriter.
- He said Ego authored the song.
- He criticised the role of social media trends in spreading misinformation.
These statements formed the core of his defence and aimed to clarify ownership issues surrounding Biri Marung.
‘He Humiliated Me in Front of Everyone’
Beyond business disputes, Maphorisa focused on the emotional impact of the situation. He described the public accusations as humiliating and painful.
“That is the sad part. He humiliated me in front of everyone,” Maphorisa said during the livestream.
He added that Mashego was not pursuing a professional music career at the time. According to Maphorisa, this distance from the industry allowed for disrespect without understanding long-term consequences.
Public shaming through social platforms has become common in entertainment disputes. Industry analysts note that online accusations often damage reputations before facts receive proper scrutiny.
‘I Paid My Dues’: Maphorisa Reflects on His Journey
DJ Maphorisa also used the moment to reflect on his career path. He highlighted years of work, discipline, and mentorship under established labels such as Kalawa Jazmee.
“I’ve worked hard to get to where I am,” he said. “I didn’t take shortcuts. I paid my dues.”
He referenced his ongoing relationship with industry veteran Oskido, noting mutual respect and continued collaboration. This statement reinforced his standing as a seasoned professional rather than a newcomer exploiting trends.
Maphorisa’s comments speak to a broader industry divide between established producers and emerging viral artists. Experience, contracts, and legacy remain central to credibility in South African music.
Why the Biri Marung Saga Matters to the Industry
The Biri Marung dispute highlights ongoing challenges within local music:
- Lack of clear understanding around songwriting credits
- Weak public knowledge of royalty structures
- Social media shaping narratives faster than legal processes
According to SAMRO data, thousands of South African musicians remain unregistered for royalties. This gap fuels disputes and public mistrust.
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