Conman hits another muso

By Penwell Dlamini (Sowetan) , 21 Nov 2007 | One Comment

Another aspiring musician has fallen prey to a con artist who allegedly tricks them out of their money after promising to launch their careers.

Goodman Sizani, 29, pictured, of Tembisa, Ekurhuleni, signed a contract with Lordsfire Recordz in July and gave them his demo album.

In the contract Lordsfire Recordz offered to market, distribute, promote and publicise his Afro-pop album.

“I paid R3500 on July 6 for these services and was promised that my album would hit the shelves on August 8 but nothing has happened to date,” said an angry Sizani.

He said he tried to call Rollence Mabula, the owner of the company, who allegedly told him they were still trying to employ people to distribute the album.

When Sizani went to the Lordsfire offices in Randburg, they were closed and a sign on the door said they would reopen in November.

On October 21, Lordsfire Recordz sent an SMS to Sizani asking him to pay R1150 in order for him to be nominated for the 2008 South African Music Awards, but Sizani did not pay this money.

In July, Sowetan compiled a list of 65 artists who had paid the same company amounts ranging between R2500 and R5500 but who wished to remain anonymous; and whose music careers never materialised as promised.

“The only thing I want now is my money and demo CD back,” said Sizani.

Mabula could not be reached for comment as he did not answer Sowetan’s calls.