Music
Tyla Cleared in Her ‘Water’ Royalty Lawsuit
South African singer Tyla has been cleared of liability in the royalty lawsuit connected to her global hit Water, closing a legal dispute that followed the song’s commercial success and raised questions about credit and compensation behind the record.
The case was originally filed by two contributors who argued they were not properly credited as producers and were denied a fuller share of royalties tied to the master recording. While they were listed as co-writers, the plaintiffs claimed their role in shaping the final track extended beyond songwriting and should have been recognised at a higher production level, which carries greater financial participation. The lawsuit drew attention because Water had already become a chart fixture, a streaming heavyweight and a Grammy-winning record by the time the complaint surfaced, increasing the financial stakes for everyone involved.
Tyla – Instagram
In early February 2026, the plaintiffs voluntarily withdrew their claims against Tyla. Court filings confirmed she was removed from the complaint without a settlement payment or admission of wrongdoing. Her label was also cleared. The withdrawal effectively ends her involvement in the dispute and removes the risk that her signature hit could become entangled in a prolonged legal battle over ownership and royalties.
Industry observers note that cases like this are less about public controversy and more about how modern pop production works. Songs often pass through multiple studios, writers and producers before release. Credits can become contested when a record exceeds expectations and its long-term revenue becomes clearer. Water became a major commercial hit, dominating dance challenges, radio rotations and international playlists. That scale of success can magnify contractual disagreements.
Tyla – Instagram
For Tyla, the dismissal matters for her public image as well as finances. She is still in the early phase of a global career, and Water serves as her introduction to mainstream audiences outside Southern Africa. Any lingering legal uncertainty around the track could have complicated licensing, sync deals and future negotiations tied to her catalogue. With the claims against her dropped, the song remains fully usable as a key part of her catalogue and live performances.
The dispute also underlines how fast emerging artists can find themselves handling complex legal issues once a breakout hit arrives. Contracts signed during early sessions are often written before anyone expects a record to cross borders or win major awards. When it does, contributors may reassess whether those agreements reflect the revenue the song generates. Music lawyers say the lesson is not that disputes are inevitable, but that documentation and clarity at the start of a project are becoming as important as the creative process itself.
Tyla – Instagram
Tyla has not made an extended public statement about the withdrawal, and her team has largely treated the development as a procedural resolution rather than a public celebration. Her recent focus has remained on performances, new releases and growth in international markets. With the legal distraction removed, attention returns to the question that mattered before the lawsuit surfaced: how she follows a debut hit that expanded international attention toward African pop.
The end of the case does not erase the broader conversation it triggered about credits, royalties and the uncredited work behind pop production. It does, however, close a chapter that could have overshadowed a major moment in her career. For now, Water returns to being what listeners always experienced it as, a record that achieved international success without ongoing legal disputes.
South Africa’s music industry is mourning the death of DJ Boonu. Born Andile Chili, the artist died, after a short illness on 25th March 2026. This sad event occurred a few months after the death of DJ Warras. Sfiso Mshengu, one of his colleagues described his death as a major loss to South African dance music as a whole.
DJ Boonu built his reputation as one of the influential figures in the gqom genre. He became recognised through tracks such as “uSwidi Wodwa” and “Abangani Bami.”
Beyond his love for music, Boonu also associated with the iconic kwaito group Big Nuz, serving as the group’s official DJ. Colleagues say he played an important role in connecting different generations of Durban artists and shaping the sound of local nightlife culture.
DJ Boonu: Instagram
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According to reports, his death came as a shock because he was active till the end. His multimedia company, Swidi Films, expressed deep sadness and praised his contribution to the music community.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Andile Chili,” the statement reads.
“Mr Chili, widely known as DJ Boonu, was a valued member of the creative community whose passion, talent and contribution to the industry will always be remembered. His presence brought energy, creativity, and inspiration to those who had the privilege of working with him.”
DJ Boonu: Instagram
Tributes have been shared from different sources. He won the South African Music Award for Best Music Video for his work on the song Gucci by Mthandeni SK.
Funeral arrangements as confirmed by the family includes a service in Durban before he is laid to rest in Ngonyameni. There have been several fake donation requests online and the family warns the public not to pay.
Msheke Lezinto has a new release titled “IMPICABADALA”. The track captures the spirit of South Africa’s Amapiano sound. With this lively new single, Lezinto’s musical influence has continued to grow.
Released in March 2026, “IMPICABADALA” brings together other artists like LeeMcKrazy and Carnival King, with vocal support from Nandi Ndathane and Sinny Man’Que. The collaboration shows the solidarity among South African artists.
Msheke Lezinto: Instagram
The track contains elements in Amapiano. It includes deep long drums, layered percussion, and smooth piano melodies. Music reviewers note that the song focuses on rhythm and atmosphere.
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The artists featured in this song contribute catchy hooks and rhythmic chants. Each voice adds a different texture. Instead of a single dominant performer, the track thrives on group synergy.
Msheke Lezinto: Instagram
Over recent years, Msheke Lezinto has built recognition through consistent releases and partnerships like Lungile Womhlaba, DJ Big Sky amongst others. The release comes at a time when Amapiano music relevance has grown. What began as a local South African sound is now an international musical force, it has influenced DJs and artists across Africa and beyond.
With “IMPICABADALA,” Msheke Lezinto has shown he is among the emerging South African artists with a bright future. The single combines rhythm and collaboration.
Tutu Puoane will return to the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in 2026. Her appearance has drawn strong interest from jazz audiences, who want to see what she will present.
The 2026 edition of the festival is scheduled on March 27 and 28 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. This brings together global and local talent for what is known as “Africa’s Grandest Gathering.” This began in 2000 as the North Sea Jazz Festival Cape Town and was renamed in 2005.
Tutu Puoane: Instagram
Puoane described returning to perform at home as a significant momen. She says that being invited to major festivals in South Africa is something she values highly.
“Playing at home is very important to me. It rejuvenates my soul,” she said.
Puoane was born in Atteridgeville and raised in Mamelodi. studied jazz vocals at the University of Cape Town in the late 1990s, where her professional career developed. She has built an international music career and lived in Antwerp, Belgium. Her music blends African culture with contemporary jazz traditions.
has performed in South Africa on multiple occasions. Festival organisers have described her appearance a notable addition to the programme.
Tutu Puoane: Getty images
The 2026 festival lineup continues its focus on and talent. Established names like Zoe Modiga, Jacob Collier, Yellowjackets and Scorpion Kings are attending. For fans attending the 2026 Cape Town International Jazz Festival, Tutu Puoane’s performance expected to draw strong interest.
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