Renowned copyright lawyer and owner of Siyandisa Music, Graeme Gilfillan, died on Sunday, 21 May 2023.
Graeme Gilfillan dies: What’s the cause of death?
Gilfillan gained prominence for his involvement in a legal battle concerning the intellectual property and legacy rights of the late Miriam Makeba’s grandchildren, Lumumba and Zenzile Lee.
His lifeless body was discovered at his Yeoville residence on Sunday morning, as confirmed by ZiMoja.
Jessica Gilfillan, his niece, expressed her condolences, highlighting her uncle’s role in advocating for artists’ royalties, particularly assisting Miriam Makeba in seeking fair treatment amidst racial disparities.
“Miriam Makeba was one of the artists my uncle helped get royalties for after unfair treatment due to her race. Rest in peace, Graeme,” she said.
Colleague and friend Vanessa Perumal also shared the news, acknowledging Gilfillan’s impact on the music industry.
Sources at the scene reported that Gilfillan’s death is suspected to be a result of a heart attack.
His driver, who had been unable to reach him, discovered the lawyer’s lifeless body.
An official statement regarding his passing is expected soon.
Gilfillan and the controversial Miriam Makeba case
Gilfillan’s career was marked by controversy. In 2018, Makeba’s family successfully secured the rights to her music, defeating the former business manager.
Gilfillan’s legal actions aimed to prevent Makeba’s grandchildren from accessing her intellectual property and legacy rights.
His music company sought to retain full ownership of Makeba’s name and even tried to impede her induction into the South African Hall of Fame without their written approval.
The family argued that the alleged agreements regarding commercialisation after her death were fictitious.
In 2010, Gilfillan found himself embroiled in a scuffle with music producer Chicco Twala.
The altercation occurred when Twala insulted Gilfillan, who had been working with the late Brenda Fassie before her passing in 2004.
The dispute arose from an order for Twala to pay R3 million into Fassie’s estate, following a lawsuit filed by the estate’s executor, in which Gilfillan served as the business investigator.
Chicco alleged that Gilfillan had been receiving R50 000 per month from the estate while Fassie’s son, Bongani, received no support and was homeless.
