Creative Autonomy, Copyright and Popular Music in Nigeria

This book explores the dissonance between copyrights, thematic support for creative autonomy, and the practical ways in which the law allows singer-songwriters' creative autonomy to be subverted in their contractual relationships with record labels, establishing creative autonomy as a key criterion for sustainable economic development and making innovative legal and policy recommendations to help stakeholders preserve it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate structure of the Nigerian popular music industry, shedding light on the contrasting dynamics between copyright laws, which aim to foster creative autonomy, and the practical realities that undermine singer-songwriters' artistic freedom in their contractual agreements with record labels. By establishing creative autonomy as a vital cornerstone for sustainable economic development, the book offers innovative legal and policy recommendations to safeguard this essential aspect of the music industry.

The Nigerian popular music industry stands as a vibrant and dynamic landscape, characterized by a rich fusion of cultural influences and artistic expression. However, this industry faces unique challenges and complexities, particularly in the realm of copyright and creative autonomy. The book explores the dissonance between the theoretical support for creative autonomy and the practical realities faced by singer-songwriters in their contractual relationships with record labels.

In Nigeria, copyright laws are designed to protect the rights of creators and promote the growth of the creative industry. However, these laws often come into conflict with the practical needs and desires of singer-songwriters, who are the driving force behind the industry's success. The book highlights the challenges faced by these artists, including limited control over their music, unfair compensation, and the erosion of their artistic integrity.

To address these issues, the book proposes innovative legal and policy recommendations. It advocates for the recognition of singer-songwriters as performing authors, granting them the same rights and protections as other creative professionals. This would include the protection of their intellectual property, fair compensation for their work, and the ability to negotiate fair terms in their contracts.

Furthermore, the book suggests the establishment of a regulatory framework that promotes transparency and fairness in the music industry. This would involve the creation of an independent body to oversee the licensing and distribution of music, as well as the resolution of disputes between artists and record labels.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable insight into the complex dynamics of the Nigerian popular music industry, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to copyright and creative autonomy. By advocating for the recognition of singer-songwriters as performing authors and promoting fair and transparent practices, the book aims to contribute to the sustainable growth and development of this vital industry.

Weight: 445g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030486969
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020