Zambian musicians urged to act wisely to secure royalties

Peter Chikwampu, Media Intellectual Property Network

19th August 2010

The Zambia Music Copyright Protection Society (ZAMCOPS) has advised musicians to deal with radio stations on a corporate basis, rather than approaching individual disc jockeys if they are to be more certain of obtaining royalties.

ZAMCOPS observed that a number of musicians tend to take their music to individual DJs instead of to radio station's libraries, which means they are not always put on log sheets and included in lists of tracks that require royalty payments.

Alfred Chisanga, chairperson of ZAMCOPS, made the observation during the organisation's tenth annual general meeting, held at the Cathedral of Child Jesus in Lusaka.

Chisanga noted it is difficult for the society to claim royalties from radio stations when artists take music directly to DJs, even though their tracks may receive massive airplay.

During the discussion session, ZAMCOPS members urged the organisation to undertake activity in more remote areas and secure royalties from radio stations and commercial entities such as bars.

Members also raised concerns about television and radio stations that charge musicians to play their music.

For further information contact:
Peter Chikwampu, Media Intellectual Property Network
Email: petchiks@yahoo.com