Legal Battle Over Jerusalema Heats Up as DJ Charmza Takes Master KG to Court
The long-running dispute over the global hit song Jerusalema is heading to court as DJ Charmza, real name Chris Chauke, has confirmed that legal proceedings are now set to begin.
DJ Charmza claims to be the original creator of the song, which was released by Master KG featuring Nomcebo Zikode.
The trial, which will pit Master KG, Open Mic Productions, and Africori against DJ Charmza and Biblos, is scheduled to take place from November 17 to November 25, 2025. The Pretoria High Court may extend the trial period if necessary. DJ Charmza initially filed the lawsuit for copyright infringement in June 2022.
According to legal documents, DJ Charmza plans to call three witnesses, as well as the first and second defendants, to testify. The third defendant has yet to confirm how many witnesses will be brought forward.
DJ Charmza in Hiding Amidst Fears for His Safety
As the legal battle intensifies, DJ Charmza has revealed that he is currently in hiding due to safety concerns. Speaking to ZiMoja, he expressed fears over his well-being, given the R100 million lawsuit at stake.
“No one can know my whereabouts until the matter is settled. This is a big case worth over R100 million. I want justice and to prove that I made the song and deserve as much right to also be credited and enjoy the fruits of my labour,” he said.
DJ Charmza’s Claims on Jerusalema‘s Creation
DJ Charmza maintains that Jerusalema was a collaborative effort and that Master KG was not present when he and Nomcebo Zikode initially worked on the track.
“I composed the song, and Nomcebo wrote the lyrics. There were no contracts or agreements, but I expected to be credited and paid like everyone else. But let us see what the court says,”he claimed.
Nomcebo’s husband and manager, Selwyn Fraser, declined to comment on the matter.
Open Mic Productions Responds
Open Mic Productions’ co-founder, Lionel Jamela, refrained from making direct comments but stated that the legal process should proceed.
“The law must take its course. Let the truth come out then if he made the song. I can’t comment,” he said.