Court Rules in Favor of Musician Over Copyright Infringement and Royalties Dispute
Renowned Ugandan musician Bruno K has emerged victorious in his lawsuit against Black Market Records, bringing an end to a prolonged legal dispute. The High Court ruled in his favor, awarding him UGX 130 million as compensation for copyright infringement and wrongful withholding of royalties.
Background of the Dispute
Bruno K entered into a contract with Black Market Records in early 2020, expecting a fruitful partnership. However, as time progressed, he realized that the terms of the agreement were unfavorable. Dissatisfied with the contractual arrangement, he decided to terminate the deal.
Despite his departure from the label, Black Market Records continued to claim ownership over his music catalog. The situation escalated as the label withheld his royalties and took control of his YouTube channel. While Bruno K eventually regained access to his channel, the dispute over his earnings remained unresolved, prompting him to seek legal redress.
Court Ruling and Compensation
Following thorough court proceedings, the High Court found in favor of Bruno K, ordering Black Market Records to compensate him with UGX 130 million. The breakdown of the awarded damages includes UGX 100 million in general damages and an additional UGX 30 million in aggravated damages.
Moreover, the court imposed a financial penalty on the label in the event of non-compliance. Should Black Market Records fail to pay the stipulated amount, an annual interest rate of 14% will be applied from the date of the judgment until the full settlement is made.
Significance of the Verdict
This ruling serves as a landmark decision for Ugandan artists who have faced similar challenges with record labels. It underscores the importance of fair contracts and highlights the need for musicians to safeguard their intellectual property rights.
With this legal battle now settled, Bruno K can fully reclaim his artistic work and revenue, marking a significant victory not only for him but for all creatives advocating for transparency and fair treatment in the music industry.
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