Popular Ghanaian a cappella group Alabaster Box has taken legal action against award-winning rapper Samuel Adu Frimpong, widely known as Medikal, over alleged copyright infringement in his latest single titled “Welcome to Africa.”
In a formal legal letter sighted by OneKing Multimedia, lawyers representing Alabaster Box allege that Medikal unauthorisedly used a portion of their well-known track “Akwaaba” in his new release. Specifically, the group claims that the first 10 seconds of “Welcome to Africa” is a direct reproduction of the introductory section of “Akwaaba.”
According to the legal notice, not only does the introduction bear striking similarities to their original composition, but the song’s title and lyrics further reinforce the notion that Medikal’s work was derived from the iconic Alabaster Box song. The group argues that these elements collectively point to a deliberate use of their intellectual property without obtaining prior permission or giving due credit.
The issue is further compounded by Medikal’s aggressive promotion of “Welcome to Africa” on various digital streaming platforms, as well as traditional media channels. The legal team representing Alabaster Box contends that these actions have amplified the extent of the copyright violation, leading to broader commercial exposure and potential financial gain at their expense.
As a result, Alabaster Box, through their lawyers, is demanding the immediate removal of “Welcome to Africa” from all digital and traditional platforms. They have also requested that any form of marketing, performance, or commercial activity related to the song be ceased immediately.
In addition to the removal, Alabaster Box seeks a full account of all revenue generated from the song’s streams, sales, performances, and associated contracts. They also demand that Medikal disclose all individuals, partners, or companies involved in the song’s promotion, production, and distribution.
This development has stirred conversations within the Ghanaian music industry about intellectual property rights, originality, and the importance of clearances before sampling or adapting works from other artistes. While Medikal has yet to respond publicly to the allegations, the issue is expected to spark broader legal and ethical discourse on creative ownership in Ghana’s evolving music landscape.
As the case unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how it impacts industry practices, especially regarding sampling and musical inspiration in Ghana. Alabaster Box’s decision to assert their rights may pave the way for more artistes to seek legal protection of their creative works in the digital age.
The outcome of this legal standoff could also influence how record labels, streaming platforms, and artistes handle copyright claims moving forward.
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