- Nando’s has publicly responded to a R850,000 legal threat from Nota Baloyi over the use of Kwesta’s ‘Spirit’ song in an advertisement.
- The fast-food chain stated that Baloyi’s allegations of unlawful use are ‘completely incorrect’.
- Nando’s confirmed it secured rights through full collaboration with the original composers and rights holders represented by Downtown Music T/A Sheer Publishing.
- A letter addressing Baloyi’s allegations was sent in November 2025, to which Nando’s claims no response was received.
The public spat between controversial music executive Nota Baloyi and popular fast-food giant Nando’s has escalated, drawing significant attention across South African social media. Baloyi’s threat of an R850,000 lawsuit over the alleged unlawful use of rapper Kwesta’s hit song ‘Spirit’ in a Nando’s advertisement has ignited debate about intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry.
Nando’s, known for its witty and often provocative advertising, has firmly denied any wrongdoing, asserting that all necessary legal procedures were followed to license the track. This incident highlights the complexities of music rights management and the potential for public disputes involving high-profile personalities and corporate brands. The company’s transparency in outlining its licensing process aims to reassure the public and its stakeholders of its adherence to legal and ethical standards.
Timeline
- **January 27, 2026:** Nando’s releases an official statement via its X (Twitter) account, responding to Nota Baloyi’s legal threats.
- **Prior to January 27, 2026:** Nota Baloyi reportedly threatens Nando’s with an R850,000 lawsuit over the ‘Spirit’ song.
- **November 2025:** Nando’s sends a letter to Nota Baloyi addressing his allegations, to which they claim no response was received.
Key Players
- Nota Baloyi: Controversial music executive, alleged to have threatened Nando’s with a lawsuit.
- Nando’s: South African fast-food chain, accused of unlawful song usage.
- Kwesta: South African rapper, whose song ‘Spirit’ is at the center of the dispute.
- Downtown Music T/A Sheer Publishing: Company representing the original composers and rights holders of the ‘Spirit’ track.
