Veteran Nigerian singer and songwriter, Blackface, has once again voiced his frustration over what he describes as the rampant theft of his intellectual property by fellow artists. In a recent interview with TVC, the artist lamented the lack of acknowledgment and credit for his work, insisting that the notion he raises such accusations for publicity is baseless.

Blackface, a member of the defunct music group Plantashun Boiz, expressed disappointment at how his creative efforts have been allegedly exploited by his peers in the music industry.

“People jack my vibes. They love them. It’s not their fault. If I was not me, I would be jacking me too,” he said, acknowledging the allure of his creative style. However, he was quick to point out the ethical lapse in taking inspiration without giving due credit, saying, “The action is wrong.”

He further clarified that his songs are officially registered works. “Once it is in the public domain, it’s a published work. Was it published before your work?” he questioned, emphasizing that his claims are rooted in verifiable facts.

No Denials, Just Silence

Interestingly, Blackface revealed that none of the artists he has accused of intellectual property theft has ever outrightly denied his claims. This, he argued, should give weight to his assertions.

“So many Nigerian artists have jacked my songs. And these people that I’ve complained about, they have never for once denied it. So you people would have seen that and say there’s an iota of truth in what Blackface is saying,” he remarked.

The Ethics of Borrowing Creativity

Blackface’s allegations highlight a recurring issue in the entertainment industry: the fine line between inspiration and plagiarism. While it’s not uncommon for artists to be inspired by their contemporaries, there’s a professional and ethical obligation to credit original creators.

In an era where digital platforms make it easier to trace the origins of creative works, failing to acknowledge intellectual property is increasingly difficult to justify. Blackface’s frustrations are a reminder of the need for robust systems that protect creators and ensure fair recognition for their contributions.

Opinion: Addressing the Culture of Borrowing Without Credit

Blackface’s situation is not unique; it reflects a broader problem within the Nigerian music industry and beyond. As the industry grows and competition intensifies, the tendency to "borrow" creative works without proper acknowledgment often rears its head.

While Blackface’s tone may come across as confrontational to some, his argument raises valid concerns. Originality should be celebrated, and the contributions of trailblazers like him must not be swept under the rug.

It is also a call for budding artists to learn the importance of attribution. Borrowing ideas can be a natural part of the creative process, but there’s a difference between inspiration and exploitation. Proper credit not only maintains the integrity of the industry but also fosters collaboration and mutual respect among artists.

Conclusion

Blackface’s grievances serve as a wake-up call to the Nigerian music industry to prioritize respect for intellectual property. Whether his claims are fully accurate or not, they highlight an urgent need for clearer standards and accountability in the creative process.

As listeners and fans, we also have a role to play: supporting originality and holding our favorite artists accountable when they overstep the boundaries of creative borrowing. After all, the foundation of any thriving music industry lies in the fair recognition of its pioneers and innovators.