Lundi Tyamara, one of South Africa’s most beloved Gospel singers, left behind a rich musical legacy when he passed away in 2017. However, seven years later, his family and the mothers of his two children continue to face financial hardships due to the lack of access to his royalties. Despite the success of his music career, those closest to him remain in uncertainty, with no payments from his royalties reaching them.
Lundi Tyamara’s Legacy and Untapped Royalties
Lundi Tyamara passed away after a long battle with stomach tuberculosis and liver complications, leaving fans and the music industry mourning his loss. His music, which continues to inspire and uplift, was once at the forefront of South African Gospel. However, according to a close family member, the royalty payments from his extensive catalog of music have not been distributed to his family for years. “We don’t know where the money from his playlisting or music sales goes. It has been a long time since we’ve received any form of payment or communication. We don’t even know who to approach anymore,” the family member shared, opting to remain anonymous. They expressed deep frustration and confusion, wondering where the income from his music is going and why they are being kept in the dark.
### The Struggle of the Mothers of His Children
Lungile and Xoliswa, the mothers of Lundi’s two children, are particularly affected by the lack of royalties. Once closely involved in Lundi’s career, they now feel isolated from the very industry and associates who once supported the late star. The mothers, who had hoped for financial stability through their children’s connection to Lundi’s music, are left without support. “They’ve essentially given up. Fighting with record labels or anyone else involved has become a futile effort. Instead, they’ve chosen to focus on raising their children and moving forward with their lives,” a source close to the situation explained.
### Maintaining Family Unity Amid Financial Strain
Despite their financial difficulties, Lundi Tyamara’s family has managed to maintain a united front. The mothers of his children, along with other relatives, have found peace and continue to coexist harmoniously, focusing on their lives. “We’ve come to terms with everything. Life moves on, and time does help heal wounds. We’re not in conflict with each other, and we’re all managing the best we can,” a family insider stated. While the struggle over unpaid royalties has strained them, they remain resilient and determined to move forward without letting the financial uncertainty tear them apart.
### The Manager’s Response and the Continuing Uncertainty
Tshepo Nzimande, who previously managed Lundi’s career, addressed the situation publicly. He acknowledged the concerns of Lundi’s family but explained that he has distanced himself from the music industry in recent years. “I’m no longer very active in the music business. However, I did sit down with Lundi’s family and children after his passing. We agreed that his royalties should go to his children,” Nzimande shared. While he expressed his willingness to assist, he added that if the family has concerns, they should reach out to him directly. Despite this, the family remains unsure where to turn, as they continue to face the burden of unpaid royalties.
### Conclusion: A Lingering Legacy with Unresolved Financial Issues
The story of Lundi Tyamara’s family highlights the complexities and challenges that often accompany posthumous success in the music industry. While his legacy lives on, his loved ones face an uphill battle for the royalties that were rightfully owed to them. The situation underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the music business, especially when it comes to ensuring that artists’ families are supported after their passing. As the Tyamara family continues to navigate these financial challenges, their story remains a poignant reminder of the struggles that many families of late artists endure.