Tussle Erupts Among Local Musicians Over Song Names

A significant conflict has arisen among local musicians concerning the titles of songs from Skyrock's debut album, set for release tonight.

Skyrock's debut album, titled "Samuga," will be launched with a music show at The Olympus tonight.

Just as the show is about to take place, the Boduberu group 'Harubee' issued a statement last night, claiming that Skyrock was using song titles 'Samuga' and 'Iru' from its album, both of which are Harubee's under the country's copyright law. The statement explained that these names were granted rights to the group under the 2012 Act by Hasan Uswatullah, a founding member of Harubee.

Harubee stated that Skyrock's use of these names infringes on their rights and legal action will be pursued against the band.

Renowned local musician Abdullah Esa (Esa) also responded to Harubee in a lengthy Facebook post. He wrote the lyrics for the two disputed songs.

Esa asserted that copyright protection applies only if the work is the original product of the person. He claimed that the entire melody and lyrics of "Samuga" and "Iru" are not Harubee's original works.

"I am the original owner of the lyrics and melody of those two songs," Esa stated.

"Legally, I hold the direct copyright to the original work of the two songs. By giving them to Skyrock for commercial purposes, I am exercising the economic rights granted to the author by law," he explained.

Esa expressed disappointment and frustration with Harubee's apparent jealousy of Skyrock’s efforts without considering legalities, emphasizing the need to respect the distinction between a Boduberu group and a full-set-up music band.

According to the Copyright Act, the economic and moral rights of a work are protected during the author's lifetime and for 50 years after their death.

"If this case goes to court, I am ready to stand by my claims," Esa declared.

Following the escalation, Skyrock issued a press release stating that 'Samuga' has been performed by the band at various shows over the past. Additionally, the band noted that 'Iru' was created specifically for the album.

Skyrock emphasized that the songs are being released after completing all legal formalities and expressed willingness to work with Harubee to resolve the issue, although they currently lack the group's support.