The Sunday Mail
Dennis Chimanzi
ZIMDANCEHALL musician Shinsoman, born Tinashe Romeo Anthony, is not a happy man.
He is furious after self-proclaimed prophet and gospel musician T Freddy used his song “Hativasiye Vane Nyota” in a church service without permission.
A video that is trending on various social media platforms shows T Freddy and his congregation grooving to Shinsoman’s hit song during a church service.
“I am not happy at all. T Freddy, who is a musician himself, is supposed to know and respect copyright laws.
“He should have approached me and done what was supposed to be done,” said the hoarse-voiced Shinsoman.
At one time, Shinsoman, or simply Shinso, contemplated taking legal action against the prophet.
“I nearly took legal action against him for using my song without my permission. He should have paid for using that track.
“ I then contacted him and we made peace. I forgave him and decided against suing him.”
The chanter warned musicians and the public against using other people’s songs without permission.
“This should serve as a stern warning to those who are not respecting copyright laws. I don’t want anyone to use my songs without my permission. Next time, I will not be as forgiving as I did with T Freddy,” he said.
Efforts to get a comment from T Freddy were fruitless as the gospel musician directed this reporter to his secretary.
Freddy’s secretary, Molly, did not pick up calls.
This is not the first time that local musicians have clashed over the use of songs without permission.
Pastor Charles Charamba, at one time, expressed his dismay after Zimdancehall singer King Shaddy used some lyrics from his hit song “Machira Chete” without permission.
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