Influencer, reality TV star and singer Tebogo Ramokgadi is tired of keeping quiet after trying to resolve a matter involving his music being used in the reality show Izangoma Zodumo for seasons one and two.

UNPAID ROYALTIES

Tebogo, who worked closely with executive producer, Dimi Raphoto of Sakhile Productions, told ZiMoja that three of his songs from his album Simple Life, which he released in 2020, were used in seasons one and two of the reality show Izangoma Zodumo.

The reality show starred Prudence Thandiwe "Ngwe' Magagule and Makgotso "Gogo Maweni' Makopo but Tebogo was never credited. "I was happy to have my songs on the show. It was a great opportunity for me to showcase my passion, which is music, something I studied and perfected,' Tebogo said. "I had no problem having my music on the show after several discussions with the producer and had an agreement. They took about three or four songs from my album and used them on the show. However, when the credits came up and my name was not there,' he said. 

CREDITS PLEASE

A furious Tebogo said he did not necessarily want payment from the production company but was happy to collect royalties from SAMRO; however, that cannot happen if he is not credited. "I did not ask them to pay me directly but having my credit there means I can collect my royalties for the music. Also, it's just common decency to acknowledge a person for their involvement in your production, whether they are the driver, cleaner, actor or singer,' Tebogo said. He added that he has been sent from pillar to post by the producer. "It's been two years of me asking them to rectify the mess. The music plays on the show; it didn't create itself. Izangoma Zodumo needs to pay me,' he said. The producer of the show could not be reached for comment.

LEGAL ACTION

Tebogo's legal team Cameron Billson from Billson Inc. confirmed that they have initiated legal proceedings on behalf of Tebogo to address the longstanding issue of non-credit and non-payment for his music, which has been used on various television and media platforms over several years. "Our office is actively reaching out to all parties involved, giving them the opportunity to respond to the claims and resolve the matter amicably. However, should these parties fail to engage or provide a satisfactory solution, we are prepared to pursue legal action to protect and enforce our client's rights.'

Nomsa Philiso, Director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net, said she was unaware of the matter. "I will look into it,' she said.