By Simbarashe Manhango
Gramma Records and competitor Metro Studios are on a collision course amid reports the former is allegedly blocking Shuga Shuga’s move to the latter. Shuga Shuga (real name Taruvinga Manjokota) has expressed his wish to jump ship to Metro Studios complaining that Gramma Records is failing to sustain his career. The artist said Gramma Records was claiming US$4 000 which they wanted paid before he could be released. He cited lack of transparency in the administration of royalties from the sale of his music and said he was now looking for greener pastures. “Since the time I had an accident and lost all the instruments, I got nothing from Gramma. “Surprisingly, they are claiming I owe them money, but that is not true. This is one of their tricks to block my move. I am just an artist who wants to sustain his career. I need to move to where there is life and development,” said Manjokota. Gramma Records general manager, Emmanuel Vhori was reluctant to comment on the issue. “I cannot comment on that issue over the telephone but what I can assure you is that Manjokota is telling you half the story. “You first need to come to our studios together with Shuga Shuga and then make everything transparent in the presence of all parties. “This is the only way we can establish the truth,” said Vhori. Meanwhile, Metro Studios have purchased US$17 000 worth of equipment for their new signing, Manjokota as part of the contractual agreement. Last week Metro Studios director, Emion Sibindi confirmed the purchase of instruments but declined to speak on the cost. “We have purchased musical instruments for the artist but we are currently going through negotiations and agreeing terms with him. “We can only give out more information when we are done with negotiations and agreeing terms with the artist”, he said. Manjokota said he would pay a certain percentage to Metro for these new instruments.
