The executive producer of Hallelujah Voices, Kwame Mickey, has rejected claims that he is suing the music group, Team Eternity, for copyright infringement purposely to gain money for himself.

He stated that his motive behind tackling Team Eternity over copyright claims is to ensure his property is protected and the right thing is done legally.

The music producer indicated that he earns about $1,500 a month and, besides, other things give him money to survive on, hence the accusations are baseless.

Mickey noted that he is not perturbed by the criticisms he is facing in the public domain and is focused on taking the right steps towards the issue.

“I don’t know why people are castigating me. I even heard a commentary that because I am broke, I am using forceful means to get money. By God’s grace, even if I don’t work again, what I have gained already can cater for me till I die. Every month I earn at least $1,500. I can stay at home and take that money every month,” he said on UTV's United Showbiz.

The music producer indicated that his legal team, together with Team Eternity’s own, are on the brink of reaching an agreement to resolve the issue amicably.

He hinted that funds could be paid to compensate him for the copyright infringement.

Background

Mickey claimed that Team Eternity Ghana had unlawfully used the 'Defe Defe' phrase in their new song.

While some argue that the expression 'Defe Defe' cannot be owned by Hallelujah Voices, others point out lyrical similarities between the two songs.

Hallelujah Voices' version includes the line "Manhyia Nyame a anka ɔbonsam ayɛ me defe defe," while Team Eternity's rendition goes "Manhyia Nyame a anka y’ayɛ me defe defe."

The dispute has generated conversations on the topic of copyright laws and the need for artistes to obtain permission before incorporating elements of others' work into their own creations.

Watch he video below.

I am not claiming ownership of the word 'defedefe,' but... - Kwame Mickey clarifies#unitedshowbiz pic.twitter.com/1W6doJoVie

— UTV Ghana (@utvghana) June 22, 2024