Nomcebo Zikode, the co-singer of the popular single Jerusalama, has mentioned that she wasn’t paid any royalties following the song’s success in 2020.
The track, produced by Master KG and performed by Zikode, became a viral anthem in 2020, sparking dance challenges, flash mobs, and international acclaim.
It topped music charts in over ten countries, was streamed more than 500 million times on YouTube, and gained millions more listens on platforms like Spotify. Yet despite the song’s widespread commercial use and immense popularity, Zikode revealed on Instagram that she has not earned a single cent.
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“I still have not seen a single cent… I am still fighting for my rights,” Zikode wrote in a post that has reignited public scrutiny over how artists are compensated.
She described her emotional turmoil, stating, “It has broken me,” while emphasizing her resolve to continue advocating for fairness: “We cannot continue excusing the exploitation of artists in this beautiful country.” Her remarks have drawn global support, with fans and fellow artists amplifying her call for justice under the hashtag #JusticeForNomcebo.
“Jerusalema” is a song by South African DJ and record producer Master KG, featuring South African vocalist Nomcebo.
The upbeat gospel-influenced house song was initially released on 29 November 2019 after it garnered a positive response online, with a music video following on 21 December. The song’s music video has generated half a billion views on YouTube. It was later included on Master KG’s second album of the same title, released in January 2020.
A single edit was released on streaming services on 10 July 2020, after it went viral during mid-2020, garnering international reaction due to the #JerusalemaChallenge. A remix featuring Nigerian singer Burna Boy was released on 19 June 2020. It reached number one in Belgium, the Netherlands, Romania, and Switzerland, while peaking in the top ten of multiple other European countries. A second remix featuring Venezuelan singer Micro TDH and Colombian singer Greeicy was released on 17 September 2020.
