Wendy Shay Welcomes Legal Scrutiny Over Song Similarities
Renowned Ghanaian songstress, Wendy Shay, has confidently stated that she is open to legal examination if there are genuine concerns about her newly released song, ‘African Money,’ potentially resembling Barima Sidney’s 2011 track of the same name.
The lyrical content of Wendy Shay’s latest release addresses the prevalent issues of corruption and mismanagement among African leaders, shedding light on the dire consequences of such actions on their citizens. While the song has garnered praise for its creativity and societal commentary, it has also sparked discussions about potential music theft and copyright infringement.
During an appearance on UTV’s Showbiz Night, Wendy Shay addressed these concerns, asserting that the use of certain words or phrases in a song does not infringe on copyright laws. She emphasized that words, in themselves, cannot be legally owned.
“I have been involved in the music industry for over five years, and I am well-versed in the laws surrounding copyright infringement. There is no law that restricts the use of someone’s words. If that were the case, our Nigerian counterparts who frequently incorporate Ghanaian phrases like ‘ODO’ and ‘OHEMAA’ would be in violation,” Wendy Shay explained.
The artist expressed her willingness to face any legal challenge that may arise from this situation. She extended an invitation to Barima Sidney, stating, “If senior brother Sidney believes I copied his piece, I am prepared to meet him in court. Perhaps, through this process, I might gain some valuable insights or, if necessary, pay a fine. I am confident that I have not infringed on any copyright policies. Therefore, anyone who believes otherwise is welcome to take legal action.”
Wendy Shay’s openness to legal scrutiny showcases her commitment to upholding the integrity of her work while engaging in constructive discourse within the music community. This incident also sparks an important conversation about the nuances of copyright in the dynamic and ever-evolving music industry.
