MELODY AND THE LAW: HOW NIGERIAN MUSIC BALANCES CREATIVITY WITH COPYRIGHT

Abstract

This study critically examines the intersection of music and copyright law, interrogating the tension between creative expression and legal regulation. Using a doctrinal approach, it analyses the legal framework governing music copyright, including the protection of musical works, sound recordings, and performances. Through a nuanced analysis of statutory provisions, case law, and industry practices, it explores the complex dynamics of ownership, authorship, and infringement in the musical sphere. The research investigates the impact of digital technologies on traditional copyright paradigms, highlighting the challenges posed by sampling, remixing, and online music determination. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the legal and cultural economies of music, shedding light on the intricate relationships between creativity, commerce and law. By examining the fault lines between artistic expression and legal regulation, it offers insights into the evolving nature of music copyright law in the digital age.