SAMRO seeks rights holders to claim R64.6m in unpaid royalties

The initiative builds on a campaign first introduced in 2021 and aims to locate thousands of rights holders whose payments have been delayed by outdated banking details, incomplete contact information, unresolved estate matters or outstanding know-your-customer (KYC) requirements.

SAMRO says the funds have been identified and allocated to the relevant rights holders. They are not disputed or lost, but the organisation cannot complete payments until the information needed to verify recipients is provided.

“Every rand in unpaid royalties represents income earned by a music creator, publisher, heir or beneficiary through the use of their creative work,” SAMRO general manager for member services Nobambo Goduka said. “Our responsibility is to ensure those royalties reach the people who are entitled to them.”

“Our responsibility does not end when licence fees are collected. We have a duty to ensure that royalties reach the rightful recipients. These funds are safe, accounted for and waiting for their owners to come forward,” she added.

Goduka said the campaign also highlights the need for rights holders to keep their records current, particularly when banking details change or estate administration remains incomplete.

The initiative includes families and heirs of deceased music creators, who may be unaware that royalties from a relative’s work remain payable after their death.

“Music creates value across generations, and many families may be unaware that they are entitled to royalties from the works of a deceased member. We therefore encourage anyone who believes they may have a claim, or who knows of a creator whose affairs may not have been finalised, to contact SAMRO so that we can assist,” Goduka said.

SAMRO is urging members and other rights holders to update their banking and contact details. Publishers, heirs, estate executors and beneficiaries are also encouraged to check their records and contact the organisation about outstanding payments.

Those who wish to establish whether royalties may be due to them or need help updating their information can contact SAMRO through its member services channels or visit unclaimedroyalties.samro.org.za.

“These royalties represent more than just money; they represent recognition for creative work, a legacy for families, and income that can make a meaningful difference in challenging economic times. We want every rightful beneficiary to receive what they have earned,” Goduka said.