Eyadini Hitmaker Manqonqo Exposes Industry Exploitation: ‘I Receive No Royalties’
Durban-based hitmaker Manqonqo, known for his 2018 hit song Eyadini, has openly addressed the financial struggles he faces despite his song’s success. On Thursday, June 05, 2025, he revealed that he was exploited by his former record label, which kept all royalties while he relied on gig income, exacerbating his financial woes. This revelation draws attention to a larger issue of exploitation experienced by many South African artists in the music industry.
Manqonqo’s Financial Struggles Post-Eyadini
Despite the success of his hit song Eyadini, Manqonqo has reportedly faced severe financial difficulties, claiming that his previous record label took all royalties.
Living with his parents, the artist stated, “The painful part was watching their lives change while mine remained stuck,” expressing his despair over the exploitative industry practices.
Manqonqo alleges that the only income he receives now comes from live gigs, highlighting a growing concern of financial exploitation among artists in the South African music scene.
Industry-Wide Exploitation Concerns
Manqonqo’s situation reflects a broader issue in the South African music industry, where artists like Sir Trill and Emtee have also raised concerns about unfair earnings.
In 2024, Sir Trill claimed he had not received payment for his collaboration with DJ Maphorisa, drawing attention to predatory practices within record labels.
Emtee’s departure from Ambitiouz Records further exemplifies the ongoing struggle, as he alleged that the label exploited his talents without fair compensation.
In conclusion, Manqonqo’s story sheds light on the harsh realities of exploitation faced by many artists in the music industry. Despite the undeniable success of his hit song Eyadini, the financial struggles he endures highlight the urgent need for transparency and fairness in artist contracts. His resolve to make a comeback demonstrates resilience amidst adversity, and hopefully, it will inspire systemic changes that protect artists’ rights and ensure they receive the earnings they rightfully deserve.
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