Kenyan Senator Crystal Asige has taken a bold step in her fight for artists’ rights. She testified against Sol Generation Records in court on Monday, November 18, 2024.
The visually impaired senator accused the record label of exploiting her disability. She also claims they violated her intellectual property rights.
Asige, 33, filed the lawsuit in 2022. She seeks compensation for several songs, including “Lenga,” “Extravaganza,” and “Ukiwa Mbali.”
During her testimony before Judge Njoki Mwangi, Asige highlighted her concerns. She stressed the importance of protecting disabled artists from exploitation in the music industry.
“My livelihood is being threatened,” Asige told the court. “I want to prevent disadvantaged and disabled young artists from facing similar challenges.”
The dispute centres around several key issues. One major concern is the alleged misuse of her work in Sauti Sol’s song “Extravaganza.”
Asige claims she wrote the third line of “Extravaganza” at Snow-Ball Studio in Nairobi’s Nyari Estate. However, she says no formal agreements were made about its use.
The senator acknowledges receiving credit as a co-writer. Yet, she maintains she never received any royalties for her contribution.
Another contentious issue involves her solo song “Lenga.” Asige says Sol Generation published it on their platforms without proper credit.
The case has revealed complex details about industry practices. Asige admits the label provided growth training in exchange for copyrights.
However, she discovered a surprising development. A KSh 5 million agreement had reportedly been made on her behalf.
“I never received any payment from this agreement,” Asige testified. “The terms were unclear and didn’t follow standard contract procedures.”
During cross-examination, interesting details emerged. Sol Generation’s attorney, George Maloba, questioned Asige about the label’s rights.
Asige acknowledged that the label holds 100% master rights under the agreement. However, she contested this arrangement’s validity.
“I never signed the necessary contracts,” she stated. “Therefore, the record label has no right to collect royalties.”
The senator faced challenges during the hearing. She struggled to provide evidence of unauthorized revenue collection.
This legal battle highlights broader issues in Kenya’s music industry. It raises questions about artist protection and fair compensation.
Asige brings unique perspective to this fight. She serves as a nominated senator representing people with disabilities since 2022.
Before entering politics, she built a successful career as a musician. She often used her platform to advocate for human rights.
The senator’s background adds weight to her arguments. She combines her experience as both an artist and disability rights advocate.
This case could set important precedents. It might influence how record labels interact with artists, especially those from vulnerable groups.
The hearing continues to unfold in Nairobi’s courts. Both parties await the judge’s decision on these complex issues.
Asige’s testimony forms part of a larger narrative. It connects to her ongoing work supporting disability rights and artist protection.
The senator remains active in various roles. She serves as Vice Chair of the Glaucoma Society of Kenya and advocates for inclusive development.
This case highlights the challenges facing artists in Kenya’s music industry. It especially affects those from marginalized communities.
The outcome could influence future relationships between artists and record labels. It might lead to better protection for vulnerable artists.
As the legal proceedings continue, many watch with interest. The case could reshape Kenya’s music industry practices.
The court’s decision will likely impact future artist-label relationships. It could establish new standards for protecting artists’ rights.
Both parties await further developments in this significant case. The music industry and disability rights advocates follow it closely.
