Dr.Ezekiel Mutua's post elucidates that MCSK, representing four pivotal categories of rights—author, publisher, composer, and arranger—functions within a complex framework. One significant figure highlighted is Rehema, operating under the banner of Copy Bird Publisher with the full name Rehema Lugose Namunigh and MCSK Member No. 11779. Rehema's role extends to representing international artists within the MCSK ecosystem, including notable names like Diamond Platinums, ZANTO, DARASA, Zabron Singers, and Harmonise.
It's crucial to discern that being a publisher doesn't necessitate being an artist or a recognizable name. Just as some music producers operate behind the scenes, publishers like Rehema facilitate the distribution of music, especially that of international artists whose work garners significant airplay on local stations.
The distribution of royalties by MCSK is meticulously determined based on log sheets provided by licensed broadcasters. The revelation that foreign artists receive a substantial share of royalties underscores a pertinent issue: the prevalence of foreign content on local airwaves. This trend indicates a gap in enforcing the local content quarter, a responsibility falling within the purview of the Communications Authority of Kenya.
The disparity in royalties distribution prompts a critical dialogue on the promotion of local talent and the enforcement of regulations supporting it. While acknowledging the significance of content and consumer preferences, the post advocates for a concerted effort to compel broadcasters to allocate more airtime to local artists. Such efforts should be guided by a reciprocal agreement ensuring equitable exposure for Kenyan music on international platforms. The discourse ignited by the aforementioned post serves as an eye-opener, debunking misconceptions and highlighting the intricacies of MCSK's royalties distribution. It underscores the imperative of fostering a conducive environment for the growth and recognition of local talent within the music industry. As stakeholders, it's incumbent upon us to advocate for policies and practices that promote the flourishing of our vibrant music scene.
You must be logged in to post a comment.