MUSIGA pays Amakye Dede to avert suit

Following an allegation by Amakye Dede that his musical works were auctioned at the 2017 Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) Presidential Grand Ball without his consent and subsequent threat to sue for copyright infringement if he is not given his due, the union has paid the highlife artiste.

In a statement, the outfit said it had attached a cheque of five thousand Ghana Cedis, the exact amount raised from the sale of Amakye Dede’s compilation album at the event.

MUSIGA however expressed utmost surprise over Amakye Dede’s approach in handling the issue as it indicated that the musician should have raised concerns over the act to the leadership of the union instead of resorting to the media.

Contrary to claims by the highlife legend that his consent was not sought before the use of his works, the union said it followed due process.

“As you may recall, the Union approached you before the first compilation was done at the inception of the grand ball event in 2013. Since then, you have never raised any objection to the use of your creative works to raise funds to support your fellow musicians. In addition to the use of your works, you have personally performed during previous events in support of this function.

“It therefore comes to us as a surprise when suddenly you appear to be offended by the very event you have supported over the years. As you very well know, this year’s event has won the hearts of corporate Ghana to support at least five of your colleagues with cash donations and investments to lessen their financial burden in the coming days and years,” the statement read.

The Union further apologized for any inconvenience caused the musician.