Ladies and gentlemen, and fellow jazz enthusiasts,

As we celebrate International Jazz Day today, I am honored to reflect on the intricate relationship between jazz and intellectual property rights.

Jazz, as a genre, thrives on creativity, innovation, and collaboration. However, it is essential to recognize that behind every iconic jazz composition and performance lies the creative genius of composers and musicians who deserve protection and recognition under copyright law.

As jazz composers and musicians, it is crucial to be mindful of both moral and economic rights. Moral rights protect the integrity and attribution of your work, ensuring that your artistic vision is respected and that you receive credit for your creations. Economic rights, on the other hand, enable you to benefit financially from your work, whether through royalties, licensing, or other means. Performance rights also play a significant role, as they govern the public performance of your music, including live performances and broadcasts.

For jazz lovers, it’s equally important to understand the balance between sharing and copyright infringement. While sharing jazz recordings can be a way to appreciate and educate others about the genre, it’s essential to distinguish between educative sharing, personal sharing, and copyright infringement.

Copyright law governs jazz music records, and unauthorized sharing or reproduction can undermine the rights of creators.

As an Intellectual Property Advocate and consultant, I encourage all jazz stakeholders—composers, musicians, educators, and enthusiasts—to join me in advocating for the protection of intellectual property rights in jazz. By respecting these rights, we not only uphold the principles of fairness and creativity but also ensure that jazz continues to thrive as a vibrant and innovative art form.

Let us celebrate International Jazz Day by honoring the creative genius behind this beloved genre and by committing to protect and promote the intellectual property rights of jazz musicians.

Together, we can foster a culture that values creativity, innovation, and the rights of artists.

Thank you, and let the rhythm of jazz continue to inspire us all!

Written by
Benjamin Oduro Arhin Jnr (Bnoskka)
Creative Arts Business and Intellectual Property Consultant
Lecturer, University of Education, Winneba