This year marks seven years since the beloved Gospel artist Lundi Tyamara passed away, leaving behind a legacy of music that continues to resonate with fans across South Africa.
However, his family and the mothers of his two children have faced significant challenges since his passing, struggling to make ends meet and seeking the royalties from his successful music career.
Lundi, known for hits like "Bheka Kuye," died in 2017 after battling stomach tuberculosis and liver complications at Edenvale Hospital. Despite his enduring popularity, which sees his music played regularly on Sundays at radio stations nationwide, his family has reported a troubling lack of financial support.
A family member, who requested to remain anonymous, expressed deep frustration over the situation: “I don’t know where the money for playlisting and music sales goes. We have not received money in a long time, and no form of communication. We don’t know who to speak to anymore. It’s as though he worked for nothing.”
The absence of royalties has left Lundi’s family feeling abandoned by the music industry, with his two children’s mothers, Lungile and Xoliswa, feeling particularly neglected. They have voiced their concerns about not benefiting from the royalties that should rightfully support their children.
“They have given up at this point. They are living their lives and continuing. They feel like if they continue to fight with any labels, they would be wasting time and not focusing on raising their children,” said the family member.
Despite these challenges, the women and Lundi’s family are reportedly in good terms, having come together since his passing.
“They have decided to move on. They are okay and not fighting. Time heals, I guess,” the family member added.
It appears they are doing their best to find stability amidst the turmoil, although financial struggles remain a significant concern.
Tshepo Nzimande, who was Lundi's manager, shared insights into the current state of affairs. He revealed that he has stepped back from the music business to pursue other interests.
“I am not very active in the music business. I have other interests. Lundi’s family and his children sat down with me and we discussed that his children should get his royalties. If then the family has an issue, they know where to find me,” he said.
This arrangement highlights the complexity of managing Lundi’s legacy and the financial responsibilities that should accompany it.
Lundi Tyamara’s music remains a cherished part of South Africa’s Gospel scene, and his fans continue to celebrate his contributions. Yet, behind the scenes, his family’s struggle for recognition and support raises important questions about the treatment of artists’ legacies and the financial welfare of their loved ones after they are gone.
As the family reflects on their journey since Lundi’s passing, they remain hopeful for change. “We just want what is right for his children,” said the family member. It is a sentiment that resonates deeply, echoing the desires of many families navigating the often murky waters of the music business.
