Reference: Published by Anthony Molyneaux (TimesLive), 7 March 2024

A dispute over alleged unpaid music royalties in renowned South African restaurants has resulted in the South African Music Performance Rights Association (Sampra) initiating a criminal case. Sampra has pressed charges against Life and Brand Portfolio, a well-known restaurant group, accusing them of neglecting to pay license fees for the music played in their establishments over the past four years. Notable restaurants under Life & Brand Portfolio include La Parada, Tiger’s Milk, Harbour House, Grand Africa, Lucky Fish and Chips, Live Bait, The Lookout, and Old Town Italy.

According to Pfanani Lishivha, CEO of Sampra, these establishments have been using music unlawfully and refusing to pay the required license fees, preventing recording artists from earning ‘Needletime Rights’ royalties. Sampra, a nonprofit organization, emphasized that the collected license fees are meant to be distributed as ‘Needletime Rights’ royalties to recording artists and record companies.

Despite Sampra’s efforts, Life & Brand Portfolio remains firm in its alleged illegal use of music, leading to a legal case against the group for what is deemed as illegal and unethical conduct. Lishivha expressed concern about the exploitation of artists’ intellectual property, stating that legal action will be pursued against music users refusing to pay ‘Needletime Rights’ license fees in the coming months.

Lishivha criticized Life & Brand Portfolio, accusing them of being content with artists facing financial struggles while their businesses thrive on the exploitation of artistic talents. Sampra is determined to take a stand against such unethical practices, emphasizing that legal action is a last resort but necessary to ensure that recording artists receive their due compensation. Despite being given the opportunity to comment, Life & Brand Portfolio did not respond to questions sent by the group.