SA: Ambitiouz Amanda Black 'bound to label despite split'

The publication cites sources close to Amanda Black who say the singer owes the label two albums.

Amanda Black’s publicist, Bonnie Meslane, avoided to answer questions about the former idols contestant’s standing with the label but said she was in search of new management.

"Amanda is still looking around, having meetings with potential managers and nothing has been confirmed as yet," Meslane said. "I can't confirm nor deny whether or not she still has to release two more albums like you said, but you have to understand that there are contractual 'things'."

But Meslane's statement seems to contradict the announcement Amanda Black made on Monday when she said she had already found new management that would take her brand to international audiences.

“I am very grateful for Ambitiouz Entertainment and how far we have come," Amanda Black said in a statement. "I am embarking on a new journey and I needed a team that would work with me in realising the plans and dreams I have for my career going forward. The new management looks after my bookings, brand and publicity as well as assisting me to reach wider audiences in Africa and beyond.”

Amanda Black joins A-Reece, Fifi Cooper and hip hop duo B3nchmarQ, who have all left AE since last year.   

In November 2017, a South African court served rapper Fifi Cooper with an interdict that restricts her from receiving royalties or performing the music she recorded while at AE. Amanda Black could also face litigation from the record label if she has reneged contractually.

Amanda Black, born Amanda Anthony, released her debut album Amazulu with AE after she was approached by the label's CEO, Kgosi Mahumapelo, in 2016. The singer went on to win four SAMAs a year later.