Ami Faku Takes Vth Season to Court Over Unpaid Royalties and Wants Out from the Label
Renowned South African singer-songwriter and “Into Ingawe” hitmaker Ami Faku has initiated legal proceedings against her manager, Raphael Benza, and his record label, Vth Season, in the Johannesburg High Court. The lawsuit alleges unpaid royalties and demands above-the-board accountability in the label’s fiscal dealings.
Faku, celebrated for her debut album Imali, asserts that Benza exploited her and her artistry through unfair contractual terms. She contends that the royalty reports provided by Vth Season were inaccurate and disorganized, obscuring her rightful earnings. Furthermore, Faku reportedly reveals that she personally invested over R400,000 into producing Imali and is now seeking ownership of its master recordings.
Ami Faku | SUPPLIED
Beyond financial compensation, Faku is requesting the end of her artist, management, and publishing agreements with Benza and Vth Season.
As of now, neither Benza nor Vth Season has publicly responded to the allegations. The case continues to draw attention to the treatment of artists within the South African music industry.
This situation underscores the ongoing challenges artists face regarding fair compensation and transparent business practices in the music industry.
This is a developing story.