DJ Clock explains how Umahamba Yedwa was recorded with R100 singers

House music veteran DJ Clock has shared the unusual way his well-known song Umahamba Yedwa was put together. Briefly News reported that the producer, whose full name is Kholile Elvin Gumede, told the story to K-Mass on the show Backstage Pass on Monday, 9 November 2026.

A recording session that took an unexpected turn

Clock said the beat and lyrics were already finished when he asked DJ Tira, who was at his apartment, to record the vocals. Tira agreed and laid down his part. Once that was done, Clock felt the track still needed something more.

He did not phone anyone or book studio time. Instead, he walked out of the apartment and noticed a group of university students who seemed to be heading to the shops. He had never met them, but he approached them there and then with his idea.

The young women were unsure at first. They agreed to take part after Clock offered each of them R100. According to the report, the session produced two songs, not just one.

Awards and recognition

Umahamba Yedwa was later nominated for Record of the Year at the South African Music Awards (SAMA) in 2008. The First Tick, his debut album, also received recognition for Best Urban Dance Album.

How people reacted online

Briefly News said the story drew strong reactions on social media. Some fans laughed at the anecdote and were pleased to see Clock in good spirits during the interview. The outlet noted that he had publicly asked for financial help in 2022, in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Others were less amused and raised concerns that the singers may have been treated unfairly. Several social media users argued that Clock had exposed himself to possible legal consequences by saying he paid the singers so little for a song that went on to become a hit. These are opinions from commenters, and the report does not suggest that any legal action has been taken.

What remains unclear

It is not known whether the women ever found out that the song they sang on was nominated for a major award. The report also does not say whether Clock or the singers have responded to the online debate. Briefly News said the question of what the singers may be owed has not gone away.

For artists and session singers, the story is a reminder of how important it is to agree on payment and credit before a recording is made. Readers who work in music may find it useful to put such arrangements in writing.

This story is based on reporting by Briefly News.