Protecting Creativity: Toks Asher Young’s Call to Nigerian Artists to Defend Intellectual Property
Veteran artist manager, music executive, and author Tochukwu Umezulike, popularly known as Toks Asher Young, is rallying artists and labels to become more knowledgeable about copyright laws, warning that ignorance could lead to costly legal battles. In a recent interview, Toks emphasized the importance of understanding contracts and copyright protections, underscoring that safeguarding artistic expression is not just a legal requirement but a fundamental pillar of creativity.
Toks has long been concerned about the growing issue of copyright infringement in Nigeria’s thriving music industry, especially with unauthorized sampling and adaptation of songs. With Afrobeats gaining global attention, he argues that Nigerian artists can no longer afford to be uninformed about intellectual property rights. His message is clear: artists must seek permission from original creators or their management before sampling or reinterpreting any work.
“The temptation to cut corners is real, but artists need to shoulder the responsibility of protecting their intellectual property,” Toks remarked. “It’s not just about legal protection—it’s a moral obligation to respect the creative efforts of others and contribute to a culture of integrity within the industry.”
Toks stressed that many artists lack awareness about the importance of copyright protection, highlighting the need for in-depth research. He pointed out that understanding copyright isn’t a mere formality but the foundation for long-lasting careers. By owning and protecting their rights, songwriters, producers, and performers can create fearlessly, nurturing an environment where innovation can truly thrive.
Referencing Oscar Wilde, Toks reminded artists that “imitation may be flattery, but it must come with respect.” Seeking permission through the proper channels ensures that creative works are celebrated rather than exploited.
His journey from a science and technology background to becoming a trailblazer in artist management—handling artists like General Pype, Naeto C, Kollydee, and Yung6ix—illustrates the power of education and dedication. As a co-founder of Podium Vybez and a key player in Nigeria’s music scene, Toks’ expertise extends beyond artist development to navigating the complex legal landscape of copyrights and sampling.
As the Afrobeats revolution continues, Toks firmly believes that collaboration and legal awareness are essential to elevating African music to even greater heights. His call to action isn’t just a defense against lawsuits—it’s a blueprint for building a more respectful, vibrant, and enduring creative industry.
