Sinach at the heart of a ₦5 billion Way Maker lawsuit
In the dynamic realm of music, where creativity flourishes and stars are born, the legal framework surrounding intellectual property is paramount. A copyright lawsuit in the music industry occurs when an artist or producer alleges that another has used their original work without proper authorization, be it a melody, lyrics, or even a sampled beat. Such was the case in November 2024, when the Federal Court in Lagos witnessed a high-stakes legal battle between renowned gospel singer Sinach and music producer Michael Oluwole, also known as Maye.
Maye accused Sinach of breaching his copyright on the globally acclaimed song “Way Maker,” asserting that he co-authored the hit and is now seeking legal recognition and damages amounting to ₦5 billion for repeated infringements of his copyrights. As the producer claimed significant contributions to the track’s development, including his roles as studio engineer, recording, mixing, and mastering the song, Sinach, through her lawyer Emeka Etiaba, refuted these allegations, maintaining her sole ownership and authorship of the song.
With “Way Maker” transcending linguistic and cultural boundaries, covered by numerous renowned artists and winning prestigious awards such as the GMA Dove Award, the outcome of this trial could redefine the dynamics of musical collaborations in Nigeria. The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), also known as CONIC, oversees such copyright disputes, ensuring that creators’ rights are protected and upheld.
As this legal saga unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the intricate web of creativity and legality in the music industry. The verdict could set a precedent for future collaborations, emphasizing the importance of clear agreements and respect for intellectual property rights.
