Official song for Operation Dudula

"We are aiming to capitalise and build on the exposure that Operation Dudula has received in recent weeks," explained Mzwakhe Mbuli, the chief mover and conceiver of Operation Dudula.

"With a song like this we aim to take our anti-piracy issue to the people and make them more aware of the threat it poses to our musicians, to our country and to our culture. It is an educational song with a strong message, but thanks to the contributions of some of our top artists, it is also a great song in its own right that we believe will do very well."

Work on the project began on Saturday 24 June 2006 when Grammy-award-winning engineer John Linderman began laying down the first tracks for the song. Artists involved include Rebecca, Phusekhembisi, The Alexandra Brass Band, Ihasi Elimhlophe, Lundi, Lebo, Mandoza, Ringo, Tshepo Tshola, Jeff Maleke, Stoan and Mzwakhe Mbuli.

Other musicians involved are Hugh Masekele, Jonas Gwangwa, Babsie Mlangeni. and Godfrey Ngcina, professional percussionist. Other top names are still to be confirmed. The song is being produced by Chico and Percy Ingle and co-produced by Thami Mdluli.

The recording of the song is just another small part of the overall vision behind Operation Dudula. The last few weeks have seen increasing action by the campaign to eradicate piracy in South Africa, and this will only continue to escalate in the next few months. The promised action includes more raids on established pirate strongholds and personnel and a series of music festivals around the country, as well as dynamic information-sharing workshop and feedback sessions to manage and control the anti-piracy campaign.

The release date of the single has yet to be confirmed.