Legal Battle Erupts Between Sho Madjozi and Former Agent Black Major
Award-winning South African recording artist Sho Madjozi is facing a legal dispute with her former management agency, Black Major, over millions of rands allegedly owed to the company. The conflict centers on payments she received from her international record label, Epic Recordings, following her retirement from the music industry in 2024.
Black Major filed a lawsuit in the Johannesburg High Court in December 2025 after Sho Madjozi allegedly ignored the agency’s letter of demand for payment. The agency claims it managed the Limpopo star between July 2021 and February 2025, handling live tours, performances, brand deals, and recording and publishing agreements. Black Major also stated that it made payments on her behalf during this period.
The agency alleges that after Sho Madjozi ended her contract with Epic Recordings, she received an advance of US$250 000 (approximately R5 million). According to Black Major, it is entitled to 20% of that advance under their agreement. The agency also claims entitlement to 20% of Sho Madjozi’s gross revenue from other music and entertainment activities.
Court papers indicate that Black Major incurred additional unpaid disbursements on Sho Madjozi’s behalf, including costs related to the South African Music Performance Rights Association (Samro). The agency also claims she still owes R12 000 from a R100 000 commission for services rendered to Wasserman Music, Ubisoft Royalties, and Eclipse Communications.
Further allegations include outstanding payments for tours, the production of a documentary, brand-related expenses, book disbursements, and costs connected to her popular songs Ndi Rine and Kadigong. Black Major sent a formal demand for payment on 28 February 2025, which Sho Madjozi allegedly acknowledged in an email on 31 July 2024 but has not settled.
The agency has requested that the dispute be referred to mediation before proceeding to court, seeking an amicable resolution. The case highlights ongoing tensions between artists and management agencies over contractual obligations and revenue shares, particularly in the wake of major record label deals and career transitions.
