Popular Nigerian gospel Minister Sinach, has been taken to court by the producer of her song hit single “Way Maker”.
The global gospel hit “Way Maker,” by Sinach, became an international anthem ever since it was released back then in 2015, but its success is now embroiled in controversy. The producer Maye, has sued Sinach for copyright infringement. This legal battle raises crucial questions about authorship, collaboration, and the complexities of intellectual property rights within the music industry.
Maye argues that Sinach released the song commercially without formalising an agreement or compensating him, thus violating his performer’s rights. He demands general damages of N5 billion for alleged cumulative infringements of his rights.
In the suit, Maye describes Sinach’s alleged failure to share proceeds from the song’s licensing as “deliberate and oppressive.”
The plaintiff also requests the court to: “Determine an equitable division of fees as either an equal share or another division the court deems appropriate. Compel the defendant to disclose all licenses and copyright assignments related to ‘Way Maker’, account for all accrued fees, and pay the plaintiff his due share. Declare that the defendant failed in her statutory obligation to conclude written agreements with the plaintiff for his contributions to the sound recording. Affirm that the plaintiff’s performer’s rights were infringed upon. Issue a perpetual injunction restraining the defendant from further reproduction, distribution, or public performance of ‘Way Maker‘ or any adaptations thereof.” Legal Implications:
In suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, Maye claims he worked as a studio engineer on ‘Way Maker,’ released in December 2015.
The Guardian reports that the producer, through his counsel, Justin Ige of Creative Legal, claimed that his contributions included recording, mixing, mastering the song and creating instrumental accompaniments such as piano, strings, and synthesisers.
This case highlights the potential pitfalls of collaboration in the music industry. Determining ownership and authorship of a song, particularly in collaborative projects, can be complex. The outcome of the lawsuit could have significant implications for future musical collaborations, influencing how copyright is managed and protected.
Sinach’s Defence Represented by Emeka Etiaba (SAN) of Etiaba Chambers, Sinach denied the allegations, maintaining that she is the sole author of Way Maker. The award-winning musician said the song was composed, arranged, and performed in collaboration with other artists, including Nwabude Chude Arinze, before Maye’s involvement.
The court has adjourned the case to January 30, 2025
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