Exploitation, artists’ new pandemic!
IN the dynamic world of the arts and entertainment industry, artists often find themselves vulnerable to exploitation by unscrupulous managers.
From unfair contracts to financial mismanagement, artists can face numerous challenges when navigating their careers. However, there are strategies that artists can employ to protect themselves and ensure they are not taken advantage of by managers.
One key strategy for artists to avoid exploitation is to carefully review and negotiate contracts before signing. Artists must seek legal advice to fully understand the terms and conditions of any agreement with a manager. Artists should be wary of contracts that seem one-sided or overly restrictive, and they should not hesitate to push back on terms that are not in their best interest.
Another important step for artists to protect themselves is to maintain open communication with their managers. By establishing clear expectations and boundaries from the outset, artists can help prevent misunderstandings and potential conflicts down the line. Regular check-ins and updates with managers can also help artists stay informed about the status of their projects and finances. Furthermore, artists should prioritize financial literacy and independence to avoid being taken advantage of by managers. By educating themselves about basic financial concepts and practices, artists can better understand their earnings, expenses, and investments.
Artists should also consider hiring a reputable accountant or financial advisor to help them manage their finances and ensure they are being paid fairly for their work.
Exploitation
A practical example of exploitation is the trending issue of Thabang Sefala, better known as ‘Skomota’, who became a social media sensation with his unique dance moves, leading to the widespread ‘Skomota dance challenge’ on platforms like TikTok.
Despite earning millions in recent months, the popular figure is living in poverty.
During a recent Limpopo podcast episode, Skomota’s friend and tour manager, Skhothane sa Pitiro, criticised manager Moruti wa Dikota. Skhothane said that Skomota doesn’t have a bank account and Moruti wa Dikota collects all the earnings.
This disclosure has shocked many on social media, given that Skomota’s appearance fee is around R90 000. Rumours suggest that Skomota was earning about R545 000 a month in 2023, raising the obvious question: Where is all this money going?
In another case, in 2021, Zikode accused the label of exploitation, saying it owed her money for her contribution to the hit song, Jerusalema, which she did with Master KG (Kgaogelo Moagi). The singer had also dragged the record label to court for removing her Grammy Award-winning song, Bayethe, from Spotify. Zikode also opened about not being paid any of her royalties due to the record-breaking global hit single ‘Jerusalema’ or her project ‘Xola Moya Wam’.
The Jerusalema hitmaker is part of a list of musicians who are embroiled in disputes with the production company, after Limpopo hitmaker Ndivhudzannyi Ralivhona, known by her stage name Makhadzi, opened about being exploited.
The multi-award-winning artist said since joining Open Mic, she has not received any money for her album sales. Notably, she has released four charting albums under the record label. Some of her albums reached platinum, some gold. She also had a lot of hit songs that reached platinum and gold.
Artists can protect themselves from exploitation by building a strong support network of fellow artists, industry professionals, and advocates. By sharing experiences and information with others in the industry, artists can learn from each other and stay informed about potential red flags and pitfalls to avoid.
Overall, while the arts and entertainment industry can be challenging and competitive, artists have the power to protect themselves from exploitation by managers. By being proactive, informed, and assertive, artists can safeguard their rights, interests, and creative freedom in their careers.
What can artists do after being exploited by managers?
One option for artists is to seek legal recourse against their managers. By consulting with a lawyer who specializes in entertainment law, artists can explore their