NEWS

Court To Hear N5bn Copyright Infringement Suit Against Sinach

Published

2 hours ago

November 27, 2024

Sinach to face court for alleged copyright infringement | fab.ng

The Federal High Court will hear a N5 billion copyright infringement suit against international gospel artist Osinachi Joseph Egbu, popularly known as Sinach. Music producer Michael Oluwole, also known as Maye, filed the case.

The proceedings, set for Wednesday, November 27, 2024, involve suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024. The plaintiff seeks a court declaration recognising him as the author and co-owner of the song Way Maker.

He also demands N5 billion in general damages for alleged cumulative infringements of his rights.

Plaintiff’s Claims and Demands

The plaintiff requests the court to:

1. Declare that, without a written agreement, all fees from licenses or copyright assignments for Way Maker should be equitably shared between them as co-owners.

2. Determine an equitable division of fees, either equally or as deemed appropriate by the court.

3. Compel Sinach to disclose all licenses and copyright assignments related to Way Maker, account for all accrued fees, and pay his rightful share.

4. Declare that Sinach failed in her statutory duty to formalise written agreements recognising his contributions to the recording.

5. Affirm that his performer’s rights were infringed upon.

6. Issue a perpetual injunction preventing further reproduction, distribution, or public performance of Way Maker or any adaptations.

Through his lawyer, Justin Ige of Creative Legal, the plaintiff states he worked as a studio engineer on Way Maker, recording, mixing, and mastering the song.

He asserts that he created and performed several instrumental parts, including piano, strings, and synthesisers. This is without transferring his performer’s rights.

He alleges that Sinach commercially released Way Maker in December 2015, using his instrumental contributions without compensation or a formal agreement.

He claims she licensed the song without sharing proceeds and describes her conduct as deliberate and oppressive.

Sinach’s Defence

Sinach, through her counsel Emeka Etiaba (SAN) of Etiaba Chambers, denies the plaintiff’s allegations. She argues that she gained global recognition before Way Maker and asserts sole authorship of the song.

Sinach claims she composed, arranged, and performed the song with other artists, including Nwabude Chude Arinze, before Maye’s involvement.

She maintains that Maye’s role was limited to mixing the master recording, a service for which he was paid. She denies any obligation to sign a written agreement and insists he has no claim to the performer’s copyright or publishing rights.

Impact of Way Maker

Way Maker has achieved international acclaim, becoming the first Nigerian gospel song to surpass 100 million views on YouTube in March 2019.

It has won multiple awards, including the GMA Dove Award for Song of the Year. The song has been translated into over 50 languages and covered by more than 60 Christian artists, including Michael W. Smith and Bethel Music.

In 2020, Way Maker was among the most-played songs in U.S. churches and served as an anthem during a Minneapolis protest march honouring George Floyd.

The court’s ruling could set a significant precedent for intellectual property disputes in Nigeria’s music industry.

Check out more news updates here.

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Speed Darlington Arrested Again During Owerri Show

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“A Ghetto Love Story” Rakes Over ₦22 Million At Box Office In Its Opening Weekend

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NEWS

Speed Darlington Arrested Again During Owerri Show

Published

1 hour ago

November 27, 2024

Reporter

Speed Darlington arrested again during Owerri show | fab.ng

Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju revealed on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, that Nigerian singer Speed Darlington has been arrested by Nigerian police in Owerri, Imo State.

His real name is Darlington Okoye, popularly known as AKPI. The arrest occurred during Darlington’s ongoing show, catching many by surprise.

This latest detention comes barely two months after his previous arrest on October 4th. This stemmed from a controversial video allegedly mocking fellow musician Burna Boy.

In that earlier incident, Darlington had drawn public attention by associating Burna Boy with American rapper Diddy. At the time, Diddy was facing serious FBI legal issues related to allegations of immoral exploitation.

While the specific reasons for this current arrest remain undisclosed, the timing and circumstances suggest ongoing tensions surrounding the musician.

The incident suggests that Speed Darlington continues to navigate complex personal and professional challenges in the Nigerian entertainment landscape.

On October 17, 2024, Darlington had publicly shared a viral video detailing his previous experience in police custody. He alleged significant violations of his personal rights.

The repeated arrests indicate potential ongoing conflicts between the artist and law enforcement authorities.

Many observers believed Darlington had resolved his previous disputes and moved past earlier confrontations. However, this new arrest demonstrates that unresolved tensions might still simmer beneath the surface of his public persona.

Adeyanju’s prompt public disclosure of the arrest through his X (formerly Twitter) platform signals the lawyer’s commitment to transparency and immediate communication regarding his client’s legal situation.

He said,”The police violated my civil rights and my human rights and denied me the opportunity to talk to my family and my lawyer. The rule says I can only be detained for two days yet I was held for four without any opportunity to speak to my people.”

The musician’s legal representation appears proactive in managing and communicating these developments to the public.

As details continue to emerge, the entertainment and legal communities await further information about the circumstances surrounding Speed Darlington’s unexpected detention in Owerri.

Check out more updates here.

MOVIES

“A Ghetto Love Story” Rakes Over ₦22 Million At Box Office In Its Opening Weekend

Published

21 hours ago

November 26, 2024

Reporter

‘A Ghetto Love Story’ rakes over ₦22 Million at box office | fab.ng

Comedian and filmmaker Basketmouth has achieved remarkable box office success with his debut cinema release, “A Ghetto Love Story.” The film garnered an impressive ₦22.3 million during its first weekend of screening.

The romantic drama’s substantial financial performance directly stems from the overwhelmingly positive reviews. Significant pre-official cinema premiere buzz that surrounded the film also contributed…

FilmOne Entertainment, the film’s official distributor, enthusiastically announced this notable achievement through an Instagram post.

“A Ghetto Love Story is on top! This movie raked in over 22.3 million Naira at the box office this weekend. Thank you for showing this movie love and support,” the post said.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by FilmOne Entertainment (@filmoneng)

They highlighted the movie’s strong audience reception and commercial potential. The impressive box office numbers underscore the film’s appeal and Basketmouth’s successful transition from comedy to cinematic storytelling.

“A Ghetto Love Story” is inspired by authentic true events.

Victoria ‘Mhiz Vic’ Eze skilfully wrote and co-produced the film. She crafted a nuanced narrative that seamlessly blends humour, raw emotion, and profound authenticity. The film is a compelling testament to Basketmouth’s artistic evolution.

By painting a vivid and intricate picture of love and survival within the challenging landscape of the ghetto, the movie offers more than mere entertainment.

Centred on the tumultuous journey of lovers Obinna, portrayed by Akah Nnani, and Stella, played by Beverly Osu, the narrative explores their relationship’s fragility when confronted with harsh societal realities.

As unexpected events unfold, the couple must navigate increasingly complicated circumstances that test the very foundation of their bond.

At its profound core, “A Ghetto Love Story” chronicles human resilience, delving deep into the intricate complexities of love and life’s unforgiving challenges.

The story’s multilayered narrative offers powerful, universal lessons that resonate strongly with anyone familiar with struggles, dreams, and the relentless pursuit of love amid imperfect conditions.

The film boasts an exceptional ensemble cast. It includes distinguished actors such as Patience Ozokwor, Wale Ojo, Basketmouth himself, Beverly Osu, and Chimezie Imo.

Also, Daniel Etim Effiong, Dorathy Bachor, Efe Irele, Ehiz Okoeguale, Dibor Adaobi, and Femi Jacobs, each contribute to the narrative’s rich emotional tapestry.

Check out more movie updates here.

EVENTS

2024 Billboard Music Awards: Asake, Tems, Rema, Burna Boy Bag Nominations [See Full Nominee List]

Published

23 hours ago

November 26, 2024

Reporter

2024 Billboard Music Awards: See Full Nominee List | fab.ng

The 2024 Billboard Music Awards promises an electrifying showcase of musical talent, with Afrobeats artists taking center stage in the highly anticipated nominations.

The 2024 Billboard Music Awards has generated significant excitement by recognizing top Nigerian musical talents in the Top Afrobeats Artist category.

Notably, the 2024 Billboard Music Awards has nominated a stellar lineup of Nigerian artists, including Tems, Askake, Rema, and Burna Boy, who will compete for the prestigious Top Afrobeats Artist award.

As anticipation builds for the 2024 Billboard Music Awards, these remarkable artists stand poised to represent the vibrant Afrobeats genre on an international platform.

ARTIST AWARDS

Top Artist

Zach Bryan
Sabrina Carpenter
Drake
Taylor Swift
Morgan Wallen

Top Male Artist

Zach Bryan
Luke Combs
Drake
Post Malone
Morgan Wallen

Top Female Artist

Sabrina Carpenter
Billie Eilish
Chappell Roan
Taylor Swift
SZA

Top Duo/Group

blink-182
Coldplay
Fuerza Regida
Linkin Park
Stray Kids

Top Billboard 200 Artist

Zach Bryan
Drake
Taylor Swift
SZA
Morgan Wallen

Top Hot 100 Artist

Zach Bryan
Sabrina Carpenter
Billie Eilish
Taylor Swift
Morgan Wallen

Top Hot 100 Songwriter

Amy Allen
Jack Antonoff
Zach Bryan
Kendrick Lamar
Taylor Swift

Top Hot 100 Producer

Jack Antonoff
Zach Bryan
Daniel Nigro
Finneas O’Connell
Taylor Swift

Top Streaming Songs Artist

Zach Bryan
Sabrina Carpenter
Kendrick Lamar
Taylor Swift
Morgan Wallen

Top Radio Songs Artist

Sabrina Carpenter
Doja Cat
Taylor Swift
SZA
Morgan Wallen

Top Song Sales Artist

Jelly Roll
Jung Kook
Shaboozey
Taylor Swift
Teddy Swims

Top Billboard Global 200 Artist

Sabrina Carpenter
Billie Eilish
Ariana Grande
Taylor Swift
The Weeknd

Top Billboard Global (Excl. U.S.) Artist

Sabrina Carpenter
Billie Eilish
Ariana Grande
Taylor Swift
The Weeknd

Top R&B Artist

Brent Faiyaz
Tommy Richman
SZA
Tyla
The Weeknd

Top R&B Male Artist

Brent Faiyaz
Tommy Richman
The Weeknd

Top R&B Female Artist

Muni Long
SZA
Tyla

Top R&B Touring Artist

Chris Brown
Bruno Mars
Usher

Top Rap Artist

Drake
Future
Kendrick Lamar
Metro Boomin
Travis Scott

Top Rap Male Artist

Drake
Kendrick Lamar
Travis Scott

Top Rap Female Artist

Doja Cat
GloRilla
Nicki Minaj

Top Rap Touring Artist

Nicki Minaj
Travis Scott
$uicideboy$

Top Country Artist

Zach Bryan
Luke Combs
Post Malone
Chris Stapleton
Morgan Wallen

Top Country Male Artist

Zach Bryan
Luke Combs
Morgan Wallen

Top Country Female Artist

Beyoncé
Megan Moroney
Lainey Wilson

Top Country Duo/Group

Zac Brown Band
The Red Clay Strays
Treaty Oak Revival

Top Country Touring Artist

Zach Bryan
Kenny Chesney
Luke Combs

Top Rock Artist

Zach Bryan
Hozier
Jelly Roll
Noah Kahan
Linkin Park

Top Rock Duo/Group

Good Neighbours
Linkin Park
The Red Clay Strays

Top Hard Rock Artist

Bad Omens
HARDY
Linkin Park

Top Rock Touring Artist

Coldplay
The Rolling Stones
Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band

Top Latin Artist

Bad Bunny
Fuerza Regida
Junior H
KAROL G
Peso Pluma

Top Latin Male Artist

Bad Bunny
Junior H
Peso Pluma

Top Latin Female Artist

KAROL G
Shakira
Kali Uchis

Top Latin Duo/Group

Eslabon Armado
Fuerza Regida
Grupo Frontera

Top Latin Touring Artist

Bad Bunny
KAROL G
Luis Miguel

Top Global K-Pop Artist

ENHYPEN
Jimin
Jung Kook
Stray Kids
TOMORROW X TOGETHER

Top K-Pop Touring Artist

ENHYPEN
SEVENTEEN
TOMORROW X TOGETHER

Top Afrobeats Artist

Asake
Burna Boy
Rema
Tems
Tyla

Top Dance/Electronic Artist

Beyoncé
The Chainsmokers
Charli XCX
Dua Lipa
Calvin Harris

Top Christian Artist

Lauren Daigle
Elevation Worship
Forrest Frank
Brandon Lake
Anne Wilson

Top Gospel Artist

Kirk Franklin
Maverick City Music
Chandler Moore
Naomi Raine
CeCe Winans

ALBUM AWARDS

Top Billboard 200 Album

Zach Bryan, Zach Bryan
Drake, For All the Dogs
Noah Kahan, Stick Season
Taylor Swift, 1989 (Taylor’s Version)
Taylor Swift, The Tortured Poets Department

Top Soundtrack

Hazbin Hotel: Season One
Trolls: Band Together
Twisters: The Album
Wish
Wonka

Top R&B Album

Chris Brown, 11:11
Brent Faiyaz, Larger Than Life
PARTYNEXTDOOR, PARTYNEXTDOOR 4 (P4)
Bryson Tiller, Bryson Tiller
Tyla, Tyla

Top Rap Album

21 Savage, american dream
Drake, For All the Dogs
Future & Metro Boomin, WE DON’T TRUST YOU
Nicki Minaj, Pink Friday 2
Rod Wave, Nostalgia

Top Country Album

Beyoncé, Cowboy Carter
Zach Bryan, The Great American Bar Scene
Zach Bryan, Zach Bryan
Chris Stapleton, Higher
Bailey Zimmerman, Religiously. The Album.

Top Rock Album

Zach Bryan, The Great American Bar Scene
Zach Bryan, Zach Bryan
Hozier, Unheard (EP)
Noah Kahan, Stick Season
Dolly Parton, Rockstar

Top Hard Rock Album

Bring Me The Horizon, POST HUMAN: NeX GEn
Falling In Reverse, Popular Monster
HARDY, Quit!!
Pearl Jam, Dark Matter
Sleep Token, Take Me Back to Eden

Top Latin Album

Bad Bunny, nadie sabe lo que va a pasar mañana
Fuerza Regida, Pa Las Baby’s Y Belikeada
Grupo Frontera, El Comienzo
Junior H, $AD BOYZ 4 LIFE II
KAROL G, MAÑANA SERÁ BONITO (BICHOTA SEASON)

Top K-Pop Album

ATEEZ, THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL
Jung Kook, GOLDEN
Stray Kids, ROCK-STAR
Stray Kids, Ate: Mini Album
TOMORROW X TOGETHER, The Name Chapter: FREEFALL

Top Dance/Electronic Album

Charli XCX, BRAT
Jungle, Volcano
Odetari, XXIII SORROWS
Troye Sivan, Something to Give Each Other
John Summit, Comfort in Chaos

Top Christian Album

Elevation Worship, CAN YOU IMAGINE?
Forrest Frank, CHILD OF GOD
Brandon Lake, COAT OF MANY COLORS
Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine, The Maverick Way Complete: Complete Vol 02
Katy Nichole, Jesus Changed My Life

Top Gospel Album

Kirk Franklin, Father’s Day
Koryn Hawthorne, On God
Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine, The Maverick Way Complete: Complete Vol 02
CeCe Winans, More Than This
Naomi Raine, Cover The Earth: Live in New York

SONG AWARDS

Top Hot 100 Song

Benson Boone, “Beautiful Things”
Jack Harlow, “Lovin on Me”
Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen, “I Had Some Help”
Shaboozey, “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
Teddy Swims, “Lose Control”

Top Streaming Song

Zach Bryan feat. Kacey Musgraves, “I Remember Everything”
Kendrick Lamar, “Not Like Us”
Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen, “I Had Some Help”
Shaboozey, “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
Teddy Swims, “Lose Control”

Top Radio Song

Benson Boone, “Beautiful Things”
Jack Harlow, “Lovin on Me”
Tate McRae, “Greedy”
Taylor Swift, “Cruel Summer”
Teddy Swims, “Lose Control”

Top Selling Song

Benson Boone, “Beautiful Things”
Jung Kook, “Standing Next to You”
Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen “I Had Some Help”
Shaboozey “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
Teddy Swims “Lose Control”

Top Collaboration

Zach Bryan feat. Kacey Musgraves “I Remember Everything”
Future, Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar “Like That”
Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen “I Had Some Help”
Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone “Fortnight”
Morgan Wallen feat. ERNEST “Cowgirls”

Top Billboard Global 200 Song

Benson Boone “Beautiful Things”
Sabrina Carpenter “Espresso”
Tate McRae “Greedy”
Taylor Swift “Cruel Summer”
Teddy Swims “Lose Control”

Top Billboard Global (Excl. U.S.) Song

Benson Boone “Beautiful Things”
Sabrina Carpenter “Espresso”
Tate McRae “Greedy”
Taylor Swift “Cruel Summer”
Teddy Swims “Lose Control”

Top R&B Song

4batz feat. Drake “act ii: date @ 8 (remix)”
Muni Long “Made for Me”
Tommy Richman “MILLION DOLLAR BABY”
SZA “Saturn”
Tyla “Water”

Top Rap Song

Doja Cat “Agora Hills”
Doja Cat “Paint the Town Red”
Future, Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar “Like That”
Jack Harlow “Lovin on Me”
Kendrick Lamar “Not Like Us”

Top Country Song

Zach Bryan feat. Kacey Musgraves “I Remember Everything”
Dasha “Austin”
Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen “I Had Some Help”
Shaboozey “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
Morgan Wallen “Thinkin’ Bout Me”

Top Rock Song

Zach Bryan “Pink Skies”
Zach Bryan feat. Kacey Musgraves “I Remember Everything”
Djo “End of Beginning”
Hozier “Too Sweet”
Noah Kahan “Stick Season”

Top Hard Rock Song

Falling In Reverse feat. Jelly Roll “All My Life”
Falling In Reverse, Tech N9ne & Alex Terrible “Ronald”
HARDY “Psycho”
Linkin Park “The Emptiness Machine”
Superheaven “Youngest Daughter”

Top Latin Song

Bad Bunny “MONACO”
Bad Bunny & Feid “PERRO NEGRO”
FloyyMenor & Cris MJ “Gata Only”
KAROL G & Peso Pluma “QLONA”
Xavi “La Diabla”

Top Global K-Pop Song

ILLIT “Magnetic”
Jimin “Who”
Jung Kook “Standing Next to You”
Jung Kook feat. Jack Harlow “3D”
LE SSERAFIM “Perfect Night”

Top Afrobeats Song

Adam Port & Stryv feat. Malachiii “Move”
Tems “Me & U”
Tyla “Truth or Dare”
Tyla “Water”
Tyla, Gunna & Skillibeng “Jump”

Top Dance/Electronic Song

Dua Lipa “Houdini”
Dua Lipa “Illusion”
Kenya Grace “Strangers”
Ariana Grande “yes, and?”
Marshmello & Kane Brown “Miles on It”

Top Christian Song

Elevation Worship feat. Brandon Lake, Chris Brown & Chandler Moore “Praise”
Forrest Frank “GOOD DAY”
Josiah Queen “The Prodigal”
Seph Schlueter “Counting My Blessings”
Tauren Wells with We The Kingdom & Davies “Take It All Back”

Top Gospel Song

Koryn Hawthorne “Look at God”
Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine “God Problems”
Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine ft. Tasha Cobbs Leonard “In the Room”
Victor Thompson X Gunna feat. Ehis ‘D’ Greatest “THIS YEAR (Blessings)”
CeCe Winans “That’s My King”

Actress and comedian Michelle Buteau will host the event, which will air live on Fox on December 12 at 8 PM ET/PT. Additionally, viewers can stream the show on Paramount+ and Fire TV Channels.

Check out more music updates here.