There’s drama in Malawi’s music scene after rising artist Merchah claimed that the management team of Afro-pop star Onesimus forced the removal of his latest song “Koso” from YouTube, accusing him of using a beat identical to Onesimus’ track “Running Mate.”
Both songs, released on the same date, share the same Afrobeat instrumental, sparking heated debate online. While some fans suggested it might just be a “riddim” issue, Merchah insists the instrumental was fairly sourced.
In a lengthy statement posted on social media, Merchah said he is “disturbed and disappointed” as a young creative trying to break through in a tough industry.
“A couple of weeks ago, me and my producer Chawabeats were in the studio. Sometimes, when producers face creative blocks, we turn to YouTube beats mixes. Tha