Understanding Copyright 101 for Gospel Creatives

The interviewee, EVANGELIST TOLUWALASE, is fighting tooth and nail to be recognized as the original composer of the song titled #Oniduro. The song has been made popular by #AdeyinkaAlaseyori. She claims that she was inspired by the Holy Spirit to create the record sometime in 2014, and that she did limited publicity for the record. But that she has now received new divine instructions to now promote the record. This scenario is a familiar tale. In Gospel music, many creators do not take adequate steps to protect their creation, many are ignorant and complacent. While some see themselves as serving in the Lord's Vineyard, and do not seek to enrich themselves from the exploitation of their copyrights. We have countless instances where copyrights are grossly infringed, and there are no consequences. For example, a chorus/record might become so huge, and competing Gospel talents will create different versions/covers without obtaining any permission or authorization from the original creator of the song. As a result of these wanton infringements, many Nigerian gospel talents are unable to build intellectual property assets that take care of their affairs and Estate. Their foreign counterparts in the USA and other developed markets understand the importance of music as a #Wealth creating asset.