Songstress, Wendy Shay is standing her ground in response to allegations of copyright infringement concerning her latest song, ‘African Money.’
The song addresses issues of corruption and mismanagement by African leaders, and while it shares similarities with Barima Sidney’s 2011 song of the same name, Wendy Shay is adamant that she hasn’t violated any copyright laws.
She pointed out that the similarities in the choice of words between her song and Barima Sidney’s are not grounds for copyright infringement.
In her view, no one can claim exclusive rights to common words and phrases. She appears to be confident that her song’s message and style are distinct enough to prevent any legal action for copyright violations.
“I have been doing music for over five years now and I know the laws of copyright infringements and violations, there is no law that restricts the use of someone’s words then if so our Nigerian musicians who use our phrases like ODO and OHEMAA have violated the policy but that is not how it works”
“If legendary Sidney believes I copied his piece, I am ready to meet him in court. maybe I might even learn something from the process or perhaps pay a fine if necessary, I know for sure I haven’t infringed on the copyright policy so whoever believes I have stolen the song can take legal action”
If you believe I have stolen your song, take me to court – @wendyshaygh
#UnitedShowbiz pic.twitter.com/bq7FqPPbYY— UTV Ghana (@utvghana) October 29, 2023
NKONKONSA.com