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®
Journal of the
Music & Entertainment Industry Educators Association
Volume 14, Number 1 (2014)
The Protection and Licensing of Music
Rights in Sub-Saharan Africa: Challenges and Opportunities1
J. Joel Baloyi
University of South Africa
Abstract
Africa has given the world such wonderful tunes as “The Lion Sleeps
Tonight,” and Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s “Homeless.” It inspired the
2010 FIFA World Cup official song, “Waka Waka,” so beautifully rendered
by Shakira. Africa is a wonderful, massive source of great talent and
creativity waiting for an opportunity to express itself. Nevertheless,
the
business aspects of this rich cultural heritage still, to a large
extent, needs
to be cultivated. A lot still needs to be done in many parts of the
region
to ensure that Africa can effectively compete in the elaborate,
exquisite,
and well-oiled machinery termed “the global music industry.” Many parts
of Sub-Saharan Africa still display a dearth of the skills, knowledge,
and
expertise that are crucial to a successful, globally-oriented industry.
However,
in spite of gross financial constraints, there is no lack of
entrepreneurial
and creative endeavors in the region—and the industry is a lively
hub of adventurous activity. The sheer resolve of participants in this
industry
demonstrates the fact that the situation can only get better.