Neighboring rights, also known as related rights, are a critical part of intellectual property law that safeguard performers, record labels, producers, and other stakeholders involved in sound recording commercialization. These rights, separate from traditional copyright, ensure fair compensation and recognition for creative contributions to Nigeria’s vibrant music and entertainment industries.
The Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) is the sole licensed collective management organization (CMO) for neighboring rights in Nigeria. By becoming an MCSN member and submitting accurate metadata for your sound recordings, you can fully benefit from these rights.
Understanding Neighboring Rights
Neighboring rights protect contributions to sound recording production, performance, and distribution. Governed by Nigeria’s Copyright Act 2022, these rights provide financial benefits, legal protections, and control over works.
Neighboring rights cover the reproduction, distribution, and public performance of sound recordings, extending to live performances, sound recordings, and broadcasts. These rights typically last 50–70 years from the recording or broadcast date.
Difference Between Neighboring Rights and Copyright
- Copyright protects songwriters and composers, ensuring control over lyrics and compositions.
- Neighboring rights benefit performers, producers, and record labels, focusing on recordings and performances.
For example, when a song is played on the radio:
- Copyright royalties go to the songwriter.
- Neighboring rights royalties go to the performer and record label.
Who Benefits from Neighboring Rights?
Neighboring rights provide financial compensation to key stakeholders:
Performers
Performers, including singers, musicians, dancers, and voice actors, can:
- Control reproduction and distribution of their performances.
- Authorize public performances and rentals.
- Collect royalties for licensed use.
Record Labels
Record labels, responsible for producing and distributing sound recordings, can:
- Reproduce and distribute their recordings exclusively.
- License digital availability and broadcasting.
- Collect royalties from commercial use.
Producers
Producers, integral to arranging and refining sound recordings, are entitled to:
- Control the reproduction and distribution of their recordings.
- Authorize licensing and broadcasting.
- Share in royalties generated from commercial use.
Neighboring rights ensure producers are recognized and compensated for their creative and technical expertise.
Why Join MCSN?
MCSN actively manages neighboring rights for performers, record labels, and producers. Membership provides:
- Royalty Collection and Distribution: MCSN collects royalties across platforms and ensures equitable distribution.
- Metadata Management: Submit detailed metadata (e.g., track title, producer details, ISRC) for accurate rights administration.
- Legal Protection: MCSN enforces your rights and addresses unauthorized use.
- Global Reach: Through international partnerships, MCSN ensures royalty collection worldwide.
Performances Protected by Neighboring Rights
Neighboring rights apply to a variety of performances:
- Musical Performances: Live or recorded works by singers, musicians, and orchestras.
- Spoken Word: Poetry readings, storytelling, and other spoken-word works.
- DJ Performances: Live or recorded music mixes.
- Voice-Over Work: Narrations for commercials, films, and games.
- Sound Effects: Creative sound manipulation in audiovisual productions.
Registering your works with MCSN ensures proper tracking and monetization.
How Neighboring Rights Generate Revenue
Neighboring rights royalties are earned through:
- Broadcasts: Radio, TV, and digital streaming platforms.
- Public Performances: Live shows and event playbacks.
- Streaming: Digital music services and on-demand platforms.
Royalties are shared among:
- Sound Recording Owners: Record labels, producers, or independent artists.
- Featured Artists: Lead performers credited on recordings.
- Non-Featured Artists: Session musicians and live band members.
The Impact of Neighboring Rights
Neighboring rights provide:
- Financial Support: Royalties sustain artists, producers, and labels, enabling reinvestment.
- Recognition: Attribution enhances reputations and creates new opportunities.
- Control: Rights holders dictate how their works are used.
- Business Growth: Licensing and royalties drive sustainable industry development.
Conclusion
Neighboring rights are integral to protecting and monetizing contributions in Nigeria’s creative industries. By partnering with MCSN, the only approved CMO in Nigeria, you ensure your rights are actively managed, your works are monetized, and your efforts are recognized globally.
Secure your neighboring rights today! Join MCSN, submit your sound recordings’ metadata, and unlock the full potential of your creative contributions.