DJ Cleo Weighs In: Who Really Owns Music Masters?

Holifil

30 Mar, 2025

DJ Cleo clears the air in the ongoing music masters ownership debate, backing DJ Maphorisa's stance
This heated discussion started with DJ Maphorisa and Samthing Soweto clashing over the song Amalanga Awafani
South Africans are divided, but many believe DJ Maphorisa had it right all along

DJ Cleo has stepped into the ring to settle the debate on music masters ownership, offering clarity and insight. During a recent appearance on the popular podcast Podcast and Chill with MacG, DJ Cleo emphasized that if you want to own your music masters, you need to be prepared to pay for them. It’s as simple as that.

DJ Cleo supports DJ Maphorisa's position on music masters ownership. Image: @djcleo1, @djmaphorisa Source: Instagram

How It Works: DJ Cleo Breaks It Down

The award-winning DJ and music producer, DJ Cleo, laid it all out in simple terms during his interview on the popular YouTube channel. Known for his hit song Facebook, DJ Cleo explained the ins and outs of music masters and ownership while addressing the ongoing feud between DJ Maphorisa and Samthing Soweto.

DJ Cleo’s message is straightforward: If you want to own the masters, you have to pony up. He explained this clearly during the podcast:

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"If he wants part of the masters, then he has to pay something," said DJ Cleo. "Whoever pays for the recording owns the masters," he added, leaving little room for interpretation.

DJ Cleo also pointed out that parents who invest in their children’s music by allowing them to record in their homes are entitled to the masters. MacG shared this clip on X, reminding everyone:

"If you're a parent, here's a quick tip: You own the masters of all songs made in your house."

What Mzansi Thinks

Now that DJ Cleo has weighed in, the conversation online has shifted. Social media users are reconsidering their stance, especially after hearing from a respected figure in the industry. While some are now siding with DJ Maphorisa, others remain skeptical of his business practices.

@Poifetso349 summed it up perfectly:

"They know Phori has been right all along. But because they dislike him and want to see him fail, they refuse to agree when the truth comes from him."

@MotherofLights raised an interesting point:

"But Samthing Soweto paid for the recording, so how could DJ Maphorisa be correct in this situation?"

@real_Dumasi offered a legal perspective:

"I don’t think this is entirely accurate. According to Nick Matzukis, a lawyer at the Academy of Sound Engineering, the person who owns the masters is the one who arranged the recording session. Even if the parents bought the equipment, they didn’t make the necessary arrangements."

MacG Surprises Everyone by Supporting DJ Maphorisa

In a surprising turn of events, MacG, known for his candid opinions, recently defended DJ Maphorisa in a report from Briefly News. This came as a shock to many South Africans, given his previous criticism of DJ Maphorisa, calling him a "vampire" who exploits young artists.

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MacG’s unexpected support has left Mzansi buzzing. It seems the debate over music masters ownership isn’t just about the law—it’s also about perception, trust, and the music industry’s evolving landscape. As the conversation continues, one thing is clear: DJ Cleo’s input has added valuable perspective to the discussion.