- South African media personality Nota Baloyi is embroiled in a legal dispute with Nando’s.
- Baloyi is seeking R850,000 in damages over alleged unauthorized music usage.
- Nando’s refutes the claim, stating they legally obtained rights to the track.
- The dispute, originating from a Brenda Fassie sample, has become a viral topic.
The ongoing legal battle between Nota Baloyi and fast-food giant Nando’s has captured the attention of South African social media users, sparking widespread debate. The core of the dispute revolves around Nando’s alleged unauthorized use of a music sample from Brenda Fassie’s song ‘Kuyoze Kuyovalwa’ in one of their advertisements. Baloyi claims his company, Urbantainment, never granted a license, a position firmly rejected by Nando’s, who assert they secured the rights through recognized rights holders in November 2025. This incident has transcended a mere legal squabble, igniting broader conversations across the country concerning music rights and intellectual property.
The controversy, which resurfaced in public discourse on January 30, 2026, highlights the complexities of celebrity endorsement and commercial use of artistic works. Social media timelines and group chats have been abuzz with reactions, indicating the high public interest in both Baloyi’s assertive stance and Nando’s corporate defense. The case continues to be a point of contention, drawing significant commentary from entertainment industry figures and legal observers alike.
Timeline
- **January 30, 2026, evening:** Joburg ETC reports on the ongoing Nota Baloyi vs. Nando’s legal dispute, noting it as a heated local debate.
- **November 2025:** Nando’s claims to have legally obtained the rights to the Brenda Fassie track and addressed the issue with Baloyi in writing.
Key Players
- Nota Baloyi: South African media personality, claimant.
- Nando’s: Restaurant chain, defendant.
- Urbantainment: Nota Baloyi’s company.
- Brenda Fassie: Late iconic South African musician, whose song sample is at the center of the dispute.
