SA: Lungi Naidoo inks Ditto publishing deal

Naidoo is the first African songwriter to sign a publishing deal with the British company, according to a statement. The news comes on the heels of Naidoo’s latest EP Courage, which received more than 1 100 plays on radio stations around the world, including in the US, UK, Canada, Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa. Her ‘Feel Good’ music video also received more than 150 flightings on a number of music TV channels including MTV Base, Trace and Channel O.

“As an independent artist and songwriter, I’m thrilled to be working with Tom, Tayo and the Ditto Plus Music Publishing team,” Lungi Naidoo said. “I can’t wait to start writing and collaborating with amazing artists and songwriters around the world. I’m looking forward to this new chapter in my career as a lyricist.”

Ditto Music has worked with artists like Ed Sheeran, Stormzy and Sam Smith, among many other global superstars. The company has 22 offices in 19 countries with deals in place enabling direct royalty collection in about 190 countries.

Ditto Plus Music Publishing managing director Tom Weller said: “Tayo, myself, and the whole team are very happy and proud to sign Lungi Naidoo. We'll be working closely together to build on Lungi's success and ensure that she benefits fully from our world-class service. Lungi is the perfect match for us at Ditto, and we're all excited to see what we can achieve together through this partnership.”

Naidoo boasts more than 20 years of experience in the music industry. She has written and worked with local artists including Black Coffee, Heavy K, DJ Clock, DJ Sbu, Mondli Ngcobo and Kabelo as well as Nigeria’s CKay.