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Nomcebo Zikode and her record label, Emazulwini Productions, are deeply disappointed by the ruling handed down on 9 May 2025 by the High Court in Pretoria in the matter involving Open Mic Productions and Africori SA.
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. 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.
To date, Open Mic has not adequately accounted to her in respect of revenues received from Jerusalema or other music released under their label. They have systematically sought to downplay her contribution and obstruct her professional progress while continuing to benefit from her creative labour.
The judgment is, in our respectful view, fundamentally flawed and deeply troubling. Nomcebo’s legal team is currently studying the full judgment, and an appeal is being actively considered.
While we respect the role of the Court, we cannot ignore the bigger picture: 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. Nomcebo’s battle is emblematic of the struggle faced by countless artists across the continent who are locked into unfair deals and denied their rightful earnings by powerful corporate entities.
Nomcebo remains steadfast in her pursuit of justice. This decision, while disheartening, only strengthens her resolve to exhaust every available legal avenue until fairness is achieved. She is incredibly grateful for the continued support of her fans, peers, and the wider public, and urges the music industry to reckon with the systemic issues this matter brings to the forefront.
