Open Mic Productions has disputed claims that internationally acclaimed musician Makhadzi has left the record label.
This comes shortly after the songbird, real name Ndivhudzannyi Ralivhona, claimed that the parties three-year contract came to an end in March and noted that she was focusing on her own record label called Makhadzi Entertainment.
However, Open Mic spokesperson Nkateko Maluleke insisted that Makhadzi is still signed under Open Mic Productions until the record label decides otherwise.
“We are sitting with a valid contract, so we won’t be issuing a similar statement. She’s still on contract with Open Mic,” said Maluleke.
“It [the contract] was an auto renewal, so people get excited and sensationalise, that is why I have taken up a position not to engage publicly but rather stick to what we have on record.
“An auto-renewable contract means when the expiry time comes, it automatically renews until the record label decides not to renew. It renews with a similar period as the initial contract and she has a letter confirming renewal.”
Contrary to what Maluleke said, Makhadzi explained that it is time to focus on her other business ventures, noting that music is not a totally safe space.
“The relationship between myself and Open Mic Productions was like a match made in heaven, as it elevated both of us to become top household names in the South African music industry,” said Makhadzi in a statement.
“Our relationship produced four studio albums and all the albums did very well.”
She has released Kokovha, African Queen, African Queen 2.0, and Pain ya Jealous in the three-year working relationship with the record label and all the albums have done well and gained her international recognition.
Makhadzi says she wants to focus on her own record label and other business ventures.
She explained: “I would like to thank Open Mic Productions for the good work and contribution they made in my music career. I have learnt a lot from them.
“They have really played a huge role in my growth as an individual and for that I will always appreciate the company and the good working relationship we had.
“I have taken a decision to not renew the contract with Open Mic Productions, so I can focus on my own company, Makhadzi Entertainment and other business ventures.
“We are all aware that the music career is very short, and I feel that it’s time I grow my own business and myself as an individual, so that I can leave a legacy for my family.”
