Sho Madjozi Faces R5 Million Lawsuit from Former Managers Black Major Over Epic Records Deal
South African music sensation Sho Madjozi is caught in a heated legal tussle with her ex-management team, Black Major, over claims of unpaid commissions and costs. The agency alleges the star owes them more than R5 million from a payout by her international label, Epic Records, plus shares from other earnings. This comes after Madjozi stepped back from the spotlight in early 2025 to chase new passions like children’s books and acting. The case, filed in court, shines a light on the often-tricky world of artist-manager deals in the entertainment scene, where big money and broken ties can lead to courtroom drama.
As one of South Africa’s most loved performers, known for her vibrant Tsonga pride and global hits, Madjozi’s shift away from music shocked fans. Now, this dispute adds a sour note to her fresh start, raising questions about fairness in contracts and artist rights. With mediation on the table, many are watching to see if the two sides can sort it out without a full-blown trial. This story highlights the ups and downs of fame, where success brings riches but also risks like these legal headaches.
Details of the Legal Claims Against Sho Madjozi
Black Major has taken Madjozi to court, saying she skipped out on paying their cut from a hefty advance by Epic Records. Court documents show the agency managed her from July 2021 to February 2025, handling everything from tours and gigs to brand partnerships and recording deals. They even covered some expenses upfront, expecting to get paid back later.
The main beef is over an advance of about R5 million that Epic paid Madjozi when her deal with them wrapped up. Black Major says their contract gives them 20% of that—around R1 million—since they helped set up and run her career during that time. But it’s not just that; they claim rights to 20% of her income from other music and entertainment gigs too.
On top of the big payout, the agency lists other unpaid bills. These include costs tied to royalties body Samro, tour expenses, a documentary project, brand endorsements, work on her children’s books, and tracks like Ndi Rine and Kadigong. They also point to a smaller amount—R12,000—in commissions from deals with Wasserman Music, Ubisoft Royalties, and Eclipse Communications.
To back their case, Black Major shared a letter they sent on 28 February 2025 demanding the money. They say Madjozi owned up to owing it in a July 2024 email but still hasn’t coughed up. Instead of jumping straight to a trial, the agency has asked the court for mediation first, hoping to talk it out and avoid more drama.
Background on Sho Madjozi’s Rise to Fame
Sho Madjozi, whose real name is Maya Wegerif, burst onto the scene with her unique mix of rap, pop, and Tsonga culture. Born in Limpopo to a South African mother and Swedish father, she grew up splitting time between Tanzania, Senegal, and the US before settling back home. Her big break came in 2018 with the hit Huku, but it was John Cena in 2019 that shot her to global stardom—the track even got a shoutout from the wrestler himself on TV.
Over the years, Madjozi scooped up awards like the BET Award for Best International Act in 2019, making her the first South African woman to win it. She became a style icon too, rocking colourful xibelani skirts and bold hair, while pushing for African pride and girl power. Her debut album, Limpopo Champions League, dropped in 2018, followed by What a Life in 2020, blending Gqom, hip-hop, and traditional sounds.
But in late 2024, Madjozi surprised everyone by announcing a break from music. She said she wanted to dive into other dreams, like writing kids’ books—her series about a girl with magical hair celebrates African hairstyles and self-love. She’s also dipped into acting, TV hosting, and fashion, launching her own haircare line. Fans hoped it was just a pause, but this lawsuit shows her old music world isn’t letting go easy.
Who is Black Major? The Agency Behind the Suit
Black Major is a top player in South Africa’s music biz, known for spotting and building talent. Founded in 2013, they’ve managed big names like the late AKA, Shekhinah, and Moonchild Sanelly, helping them land deals, tours, and endorsements. The agency prides itself on full-service support, from booking shows to negotiating contracts, and has a rep for turning local acts into international stars.
In Madjozi’s case, they say they poured time and cash into her career, including setting up her Epic Records link in 2019. Epic, part of Sony Music, signed her after John Cena blew up, giving her a platform in the US and beyond. Black Major argues their work made that success possible, so they deserve their slice even after the split.
The agency has faced its own ups and downs, like industry shifts post-COVID, but remains a force. This lawsuit isn’t their first rodeo—music management often sees disputes over money when artists move on, but Black Major’s push for mediation shows they want a fair fix, not just a fight.
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