WHEN he died in July 2010, singer Sugar Minott left a massive catalogue, but because he did not leave a will, distributing his music has been a challenge.

His widow, Maxine Stowe, says plans for any Sugar Minott projects are on hold as his estate is managed by the Administrator General.

According to Stowe, there are many legal issues to be resolved before the matter of royalties to beneficiaries — which include herself and his children — are settled.

Stowe says royalties continue to come in from existing contracts that were in place before his death. But she is concerned about the plethora of bootleg copies on the market.

“In Sugar’s case his business wasn’t structured properly. There is a lot of piracy as he had a lot of informal and gentleman’s agreements,” Stowe told Splash.

She added that getting compensation for these works require considerable financial resources.

Stowe — who has worked with major record companies such as Sony International and Island Records — is concerned the legal stalemate will hurt Minott’s legacy.

The singer started his solo career at Studio One in the late-1970s. He recorded numerous hit songs for various producers including Vanity, Mr DC, Herbman Hustling, Good Thing Going and No Vacancy.

He also recorded and produced numerous albums for his Youthman Promotions company.

Stowe is optimistic that the legal process will be expedited for her to stage a birthday show in Minott’s honour on May 25.