The High Court has ruled in favor of musician Bruno K, ordering US-based Black Market Records to pay him Shs 130 million for copyright infringement and unpaid royalties.
Bruno K signed a contract with the record label on May 12th, 2020. However, he later found the deal exploitative and sought to terminate it. The label refused to release his royalties and continued to claim ownership of his music, sparking a prolonged legal battle.
In a landmark ruling, the court awarded Bruno K:
- Shs 100 million in general damages
- Shs 30 million in aggravated damages
This decision marks a significant win for Ugandan artists fighting for their intellectual property rights.
Reacting to the verdict, Bruno K expressed immense joy and appreciation. He thanked fellow artist Eddy Kenzo and the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) for their unwavering support throughout the legal struggle. He also praised his legal team for ensuring justice prevailed.
This case highlights the growing need for stronger protections for Ugandan musicians against exploitative contracts. It also sets a precedent for local artists seeking to reclaim control over their creative works.
