Alabaster Box Sues Medikal for GHS15 Million over Copyright Infringement Regarding his Song “Welcome to Africa”

Renowned Ghanaian music group Alabaster Box has initiated legal proceedings against Samuel Adu Frimpong, widely known as Medikal, for copyright infringement related to his latest song, “Welcome to Africa.”

The group, represented by their legal counsel, Sustineri Attorneys, is suing Medikal for unlawfully sampling their hit song “Akwaaba” without authorisation.

Alabaster Box claims that the opening seconds of Medikal’s track closely resemble their copyrighted composition. They argue that his actions constitute the creation of a derivative work, violating their exclusive rights.

Furthermore, the group alleges that Medikal’s familiarity with their music indicates intentional infringement. As a result, they are seeking a total of GHS 15 million in damages.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CLAIMS:

– Copyright infringement related to their song: GHS 10 million – Exemplary damages for his actions and for associating their brand with inappropriate lyrics in his song:

GHS 5 million – Legal fees and any additional costs deemed appropriate by the court.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

– Medikal deleted the first ten seconds of the song from YouTube, yet the original version containing their copyrighted material remains available on other streaming platforms, including Audiomack, Boomplay, Spotify, and Apple Music. – Deleting the initial ten seconds without prior contact is seen as disrespectful and an admission of guilt. Alabaster Box has reiterated its commitment to defending its creative rights and protecting its long-established reputation in the music industry.

Below is an attached PDF of the lawsuit.

ALABASTER BOX