Charly Boy, the veteran entertainer and renowned artist, whose real name is Charles Oputa, has issued a stern warning to Premier Records Limited, expressing his intent to take legal action against them for alleged violations of the terms of their musical contracts signed approximately 35 years ago.
In a letter penned by Charly Boy’s lawyer, Mr. Rockson Igelige, which was made available to Newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja, the artist voiced his grievances against the record label. Dated June 19, 2023, the letter revealed that Charly Boy had entered into Artists Recording Contracts with Premier Records Limited in 1988, 1990, and most recently.
However, Charly Boy asserted that these contracts had expired, yet Premier Records continued to infringe upon his copyrights by utilizing his musical works without proper authorization.
In excerpts from the letter, it stated, “On our client’s instructions, we demand that your company hand over our client’s master tapes, artworks, promo collateral for the music, and other relevant and confidential information within 30 days of the date of this letter. We also demand your company’s payment of our client’s outstanding royalties.”
Charly Boy’s lawyer, Mr. Igelige, further elaborated on the specific albums affected by Premier Records’ alleged breaches. One of these albums, recorded in 1990, includes notable songs such as “Big Bottom,” “Aids,” “Sexy Lady,” “Mama,” and “Nwata Miss.” Another album titled “U-Turn” features tracks like “Akula,” “Sheri,” “Comfort,” “Civilian Barrack,” and “Akula (Instrumental).” Additionally, an album entitled “Reality” contains noteworthy songs like “Monkey,” “Family Support,” “No.6 Man,” “Give Me Life,” “Lagos Life,” and “Baby Come Back.”
Mr. Igelige argued that the contractual agreements, initially entered into with the company as Polydor Record in 1988, then as Polygram Records Limited in 1990, and currently as Premier Records Limited, had expired due to the passage of time. He emphasized that the terms and conditions stipulated in the contracts had not been fulfilled.
“In this regard, we have been instructed by our client to formally notify your company to cease any further breaches of our client’s copyrights pertaining to the musical works under the aforementioned expired contract period. Failure to comply with this letter will result in legal action. We trust that your company will honor our client’s reasonable demands,” concluded Mr. Igelige.
Charly Boy’s decision to pursue legal action against Premier Records Limited serves as a significant step in protecting his artistic rights and ensuring that the company ceases its alleged infringements. The outcome of this dispute will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the Nigerian music industry and the rights of artists.
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