Drama is unfolding around a member of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, who has been accused of pocketing thousands meant for a Durban DJ.
DJ Verge, boss of Fellaz Groove Entertainment, claims Mfanafuthi “Mangane” Dlamini left him out of pocket after the pair worked together on a DJ training programme. The project, which trained aspiring DJs and engineers, is said to have brought in serious cash—but now the money trail is at the centre of a bitter fallout.
According to the DJ, Dlamini told him they earned R210,000 and agreed to split it. But Verge alleges he never saw his full share and is now demanding R20,000 he believes is still owed.
Things got ugly fast.
Verge claims he even went to Dlamini’s home to demand his money—but says the singer dodged him and blocked his calls. “I worked hard to help him when he had nothing,” Verge fumed. “Now I feel robbed.”
The fight has now landed in the Pinetown Small Claims Court, with Dlamini expected to appear on 9 May. But Mangane isn’t backing down.
He hit back, calling the DJ “greedy” and insisting he already paid him R70,000. “I brought the deal,” he said. “We’ll face each other in court—he’s trying to ruin my name and the group.”
Adding to the drama, Dlamini says he might not even be in the country when the case is heard, as Ladysmith Black Mambazo is currently touring North America, celebrating the legacy of founder Joseph Shabalala. With millions of fans worldwide and multiple Grammy Awards under their belt, the group’s reputation is now caught up in a courtroom showdown.
One thing’s for sure—this is one performance that won’t end on stage.
