The Zambia Music Copyright Protection Society (ZAMCOPS) has sounded the alarm on the dangers of copyright infringement, warning artists against using protected works without permission.
Speaking in an interview, ZAMCOPS General Manager Mirrias Siamutondo cautioned that using someone else’s work without clearance can lead to lawsuits and damage an artist’s reputation.
“Using someone else’s work without permission is a recipe for disaster,” Siamutondo said. “It can lead to costly lawsuits and undermine an artist’s credibility, making it harder to recover and succeed in the industry.”
Siamutondo stressed the importance of registering music with ZAMCOPS to ensure protection. “By registering their music, artists safeguard their creative rights and ensure they’re fairly compensated for their work. It’s a crucial step in protecting their intellectual property and avoiding potential pitfalls in the industry.”
Siamutondo also lamented the trend of Zambian artists appropriating works from international artists, saying, “Music is about creativity, not duplication,” emphasizing the need for originality in the industry.
He noted that some artists are lifting entire beats or tunes from foreign artists without permission or credit, violating copyright laws and undermining original creators’ work.
“Zambian artists need to focus on producing authentic content that showcases their unique talent and respects the intellectual property of others,” Siamutondo emphasized.
The warning comes as Zambia’s music industry grows, with many artists seeking recognition. ZAMCOPS urges artists to prioritize copyright protection and clear usage rights to avoid legal issues and support the industry’s growth.
