Lawyers of popular Ghanaian acappella group Alabaster Box have written to rapper Medikal for using a portion of their song without their consent.
The letter indicates that Medikal used part of their ‘Akwaaba’ song for the rapper’s latest song titled ‘Welcome to Africa. The letter states that the first 10 seconds of “Welcome to Africa” are reproductions of their song.
They claim that the title and verses of Medikal’s song indicate that he took inspiration from Alabaster Box’s ‘Akwaaba’. The group also alleges that Medikal’s aggressive promotion and distribution of his track on major streaming platforms also deepens the violation.
The lawyers, therefore, demand the immediate removal of “Welcome to Africa” from all digital and traditional platforms.
They also demand the cessation of any marketing, performance, or business related to the track and the termination of any contracts associated with its production and distribution.
Apart from these, Alabaster Box also wants Medikal to render accounts of revenue generated from the song and disclose all individuals or companies involved in its promotion and distribution.
They say failure to comply with the above-listed demands will result in a legal action against the rapper.
Story by: Miriam Quaye