Kelvin Momo and Kabza de Small in R1 million royalties battle as Babalwa M joins

Kelvin Momo, Kabza de Small royalties fight escalates

Amapiano heavyweights Kelvin Momo and Kabza de Small are locked in a legal battle over money from one of their most celebrated collaborations, with singer Babalwa M now also entering the fray.

What began as a successful creative partnership under the Piano Hub banner has reportedly unravelled into a dispute over unpaid royalties tied to a project released six years ago on Momo’s Private School.

The project, once praised as a defining body of work within the genre, is now at the centre of claims of broken agreements and financial disagreements.

At the core of the matter is a reported R1 million claim, with Kelvin Momo, real name Thato Ledwaba, alleging he is owed compensation for “royalties and failing contractual obligations.”

According to Buzz Life, the producer maintains that payments meant to be made every six months never reached him as agreed, with concerns also raised about how the funds were handled through business channels.

Despite the claims, Kabza de Small, born Kabelo Motha, is said to dispute owing any royalties.

The situation has grown more complex with Babalwa M stepping forward to demand her share for her contribution to the project.

However, Kabza reportedly argues that no formal agreement existed between him and the vocalist, casting doubt over her entitlement to any payout.

Tensions between the parties appear to have intensified over time.

While Momo is said to have received just over R86,000 in 2021, he now insists the amount falls far short of what he is owed, pushing the matter further.

The dispute has reportedly made its way to the Johannesburg High Court, transforming what was once a powerful musical alliance into a legal confrontation.