Promoters clash as Jay C goes back without his money in full
LONDON – Zimdancehall artist Joel Chitate popularly known as Jay C, went back to Zimbabwe on Thursday without being paid his performance fee in full with “Zvirikumbofambasei” UK Tour promoters One Heritage accusing their partners Y2K Entertainment of bailing out on the artist.
One Heritage and Y2K joined forces to bring 13 year old Ras Pompy, Jay C, Lady Bee, Dhadza D, Loud H Mbada and Lewaz Skattah but the partnership ended sourly with Osa Dangerzone accusing Y2K of not paying one half of Jay C’s appearance fee according to their agreement.
Although the other five artists on the tour were paid in full One Heritage contends that because the show was not a huge success Y2K are trying to cut their losses by not paying their half to Jay C who was meant to be the star performer and had commanded a bigger fee for the concerts.
Jay C confirmed in a statement to Nehanda Radio that the original agreement according to his understanding was that the joint promoters One Heritage and Y2K would pay him 50 percent each of the appearance fee. He says he has received one half from One Heritage but has not received anything from Y2K.
Fred Matenga from Y2K Entertainment rubbished the allegations with a blistering statement posted on Facebook saying; “Please do not listen to some delusional junkie wannabe’s who get into promotion without enough resources expecting to miraculously make a fortune out of nothing.
“Established artists continue to work with Y2K Entertainment promotions because we have a reputable history since the year 2000 when the company was established hence (Y2K Entertainment Promotions).
“We will continue to provide you with good events, the next event is the “Oliver Mtukudzi Tribute Concert” featuring Oliver Mtukudzi and friends,” the statement by Matenga read.
In hindsight the decision to call it the “Zvirikumbofambasei Summer Tour 2014” appears ironic given the unfolding events. Zimdancehall fans are clearly wondering “Zvirikumbofambasei?” While the promoters fight, an artist has gone back to Zimbabwe without his money in full.
