M.G HKh turns collaboration dispute into call for industry reform

Harare-based musician M.G HKh (Prince Peter Moyo) is urging fellow artistes to formalise paid collaborations after a delayed guest verse on his single “Tsvimbo” exposed gaps in how informal music agreements are handled in Zimbabwe.

The artiste said in March, he paid for a featured verse based on a WhatsApp verbal agreement, with delivery expected within two weeks. However, after six weeks without receiving the verse and inconsistent communication, he approached the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (Zimura) on April 26 for assistance.

Zimura responded within 48 hours and provided a standard split sheet form, which can be used as a basic collaboration agreement. The organisation also advised that members can submit their own contracts for review before signing deals.

“I made a big mistake by not going to Zimura first,” said M.G HKh. “Now I know they have the contract form. I’m speaking out so the next artiste doesn’t lose money or sleep as I did.”

He said he has chosen not to escalate the matter or pursue recovery of funds, but instead use the experience as a learning point for other artists.
“The energy is on education, not conflict. The money lesson was worth it if other artistes avoid the same mistake,” he said.

According to him, the Zimura template outlines key areas often ignored in informal deals, including fees, payment terms, delivery timelines, usage rights and dispute procedures. He believes these basics can reduce common misunderstandings in the industry.

Following the incident, M.G HKh said he will no longer rely on verbal agreements for paid collaborations.
“No more verbal agreements. Every paid feature I do from now on will use a contract,” he said.

He added that the problem is widespread, particularly among emerging artistes. From his network in Budiriro, Harare and online circles, he estimates that many musicians pay between US$50 and US$300 for features without written agreements, leaving them vulnerable to delays or disputes.

Since speaking out, he said, at least three young artistes have contacted him with similar experiences.
“This is happening more than people think. Songs get delayed, money is lost, and there’s nothing to fall back on,” he said.
He is now calling on Zimura to make its collaboration agreement template publicly accessible online.
“If artistes can download the form themselves before sending money, we solve this overnight. This is about protecting the whole industry.”

Despite the setback with “Tsvimbo”, the artist says he is focused on upcoming releases and using his experience to push for better protection systems for musicians.