Gospel star Solly Moholo sues EMI for millions

The singer and producer has taken on EMI Music after one of his artists Winnie Mashaba allegedly signed a recording contract with them without clearance.

Solly is now demanding R5-million from the music heavy weights after repeated pleas to Winnie and EMI management went unanswered.

Solly told Sunday World that Winnie had signed a five year contract with his company in November 1999, but left for Limpopo after three years to sort out a quarrel with her boyfriend.

He explained that his stable had entered an agreement with EMI to distribute, market and promote Winnie, himself and two other artists. However, EMI was to pay Solly's record label 27% in royalties but that never materialized.

EMI also apparently booked a studio, recorded and released an album for Winnie without notifying him. "This was illegal because they were supposed to get clearance from me," Solly explained.

EMI's Tony da Silva explained that Solly did not receive royalties because he did not deserve it.

"He was not party to our agreement with Winnie Mashaba and played no role in the recording. He didn't pay a cent towards the makings of the recordings. It would be ludicrous for Solly to expect money for nothing," he explained.

Winnie was not available for comment.

*Picture: Twitter