In the ever-evolving music industry, one thing remains constant: the need to protect the rights of creators. In South Africa, this protection begins with copyright law, which recognizes and safeguards the rights of composers and creators of original works.
If you write music or create any form of intellectual property, the law is your first line of defense, ensuring your work is legally protected from unauthorized use.
But beyond the legal framework, there are organizations dedicated to helping creators manage and monetize their rights. One such organization is the Composers, Authors, and Publishers Association (CAPASSO), a collective management organization (CMO) that works hand-in-hand with other CMOs in South Africa. These organizations exist to make sure that artists and music creators get paid for their work.
As a member of a CMO like CAPASSO, your rights are protected through licensing agreements. These licenses are issued to music users—whether they’re radio stations, streaming platforms, or businesses—that want to play or use your music. In return, the CMO collects royalties on your behalf, ensuring that you receive fair compensation whenever your work is used commercially.
The process is straightforward: once music users obtain licenses, they pay fees, which are then pooled and distributed to the rights holders—composers, songwriters, and music publishers. This system ensures that artists receive ongoing compensation for their work, even after it has been released.
In short, copyright law in South Africa provides the legal foundation for protecting your music, while organizations like CAPASSO ensure that you're compensated for its use. By registering with a CMO, you’re taking a crucial step toward securing your financial future as a musician.
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