Summary:
The system will register musicians’ works and track their usage in bars, TV stations, and radio stations. Businesses playing Ugandan music must install licensed devices to record play counts, ensuring fair compensation for artists.
KISORO: Celebrities in Kisoro district have expressed mixed reactions to the newly endorsed Copyright Management System, designed to ensure that musicians earn from their work through digital tracking.
This development follows President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s approval of the system during a meeting with government officials and musicians, including Uganda National Musicians Federation president Eddy Kenzo.
The system will register musicians’ works and track their usage in bars, TV stations, and radio stations. Businesses playing Ugandan music must install licensed devices to record play counts, ensuring fair compensation for artists. The Uganda Communications Commission will monitor compliance, and establishments that fail to comply risk being shut down.
Some celebrities, such as Mbarushimana Julius (Eco Juslee) and Manzi Pauline, are concerned that the system might encourage the playing of national music over local music, potentially leading to a decline in the popularity of Ugandan artists and benefiting national artists at the expense of local talent. They also expressed worries about the relationship between musicians and their audience being hindered, as forced measures may be applied if the audience fails to pay. They further noted that promoting local artists will become more expensive than before.
Mbarushimana Julius (Eco Juslee) and Manzi Pauline have called for clearer guidelines and better resources on copyright laws, fair use, and licensing requirements. On the other hand, Asumani Nabugodi (Yankee Raymond) sees this as a major step in securing artists’ creative rights. He pointed out that the copyright management system simplifies licensing, making it easier for businesses to comply while also boosting musicians’ earnings and the opportunities for content creators.
CUE IN MUSICIANS…..ON COPYRIGHT……RR//
Similarly, music promoters, including Denis Daniel Skiria (DJ F), believe the copyright system is underestimated due to widespread ignorance about compensation, increased revenue, and improved copyright protection, but they also anticipate increased competition.
Daniel highlighted that simplified licensing will allow businesses access to a wider range of music, although it may lead to higher operational costs. He also warned that people might unknowingly use copyrighted music without obtaining the necessary licenses or permissions. Ignorance of copyright laws could result in creators not receiving fair compensation for their work.
Daniel called for increased public education on copyright laws and the importance of respecting creators’ rights. He suggested offering workshops and training sessions for businesses, content creators, and individuals on copyright laws and licensing requirements.
Stephen Shafiq, the executive director of Shaff Management, believes that the system ensures artists and creators receive fair payment for their work. He emphasized that it helps creators earn more through efficient royalty collection and improved copyright protection, which safeguards artists’ rights.
Shafiq also highlighted that the system would promote collaboration and unity among artists by actively monitoring and enforcing copyright laws.
CUE IN MUSIC PROMOTERS…ON COPYRIGHT…RR//
