Mangaliso Kabulika
MUSICIANS have been advised to report piracy and illegal use of their music.
Speaking at a workshop held by the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA), a police representative noted that bars, shops, restaurants or street vendors who played music without the artists’ permission, as well as those that sell pirated music, should all be reported.
However, registration with a reputable music association and the provision of documentary evidence would be required before a case is processed.
This would include information about where the offending establishment was, the song played and the management of the premises.
“This only applies to artists who are properly registered with reputable musical associations.
“When artists report an infringement of their copyright, they must provide evidence that is relevant and satisfactory so that it will be considered by the National Prosecuting Authority.
In the event that associations report infringements in bars and restaurants, they need to have full information of where the bar is, which song was being played and who was there in terms of the management of the premises as it will assist our investigations,” he said.