Friendship Destroyed by the Music Biz: Kelvin Momo Takes Kabza De Small to Court
Kelvin Momo and Kabza De Small’s battle has shifted from the music charts to the courtroom. Momo has taken his former collaborator to court over a contractual disagreement, casting a shadow over their once-close friendship.
Also read: Kabza De Small Accused Of Defrauding Fans After A No-Show
The Contractual Breakdown
Kelvin Momo, whose real name is Thato Ledwaba, was previously signed to Kabza De Small’s record label, PianoHub. As per the contract, PianoHub was obligated to pay Momo his royalties every six months and promote his music commercially. However, Momo believes the label failed to fulfil these obligations.
According to an insider, PianoHub was meant to promote Momo’s 2020 album “Momo’s Private School” and secure endorsements for the artist. However, the insider claims the label fell short, forcing Momo to handle the promotion independently.
Additionally, Kabza allegedly did not inform distributors and publishers that Kelvin was no longer under contract with PianoHub, resulting in payments being misdirected to the record label instead of Kelvin.
Also read: Kabza De Small’s Mysterious Eye Infection Sparks Witchcraft Rumours
Effect of Kelvin Momo and Kabza De Small’s Contractual Dispute
The source also revealed that the contractual dispute has strained the once-strong friendship between the two producers.
“They were really close. They had a good friendship until the signing of the contracts. Sometimes you cannot mix friendships with business. PianoHub also has a lot of artists, and they battle to juggle all at once,’ the source said.
Momo has now taken the legal route, heading to the Johannesburg High Court to demand R1 million in compensation from PianoHub. The compensation is sought for unpaid royalties and the label’s failure to meet its contractual obligations.
“This is for royalties and for failing to meet his contractual obligations,” the insider said.
No Comments
Both Kabza De Small and Kelvin Momo have remained tight-lipped about the ongoing legal battle, with Kabza declining to comment and Momo choosing not to discuss the matter publicly.