In the dynamic world of Tanzanian music, the story of Roby Tone and Aslay’s collaborative hit “Nichumu” has taken an unexpected turn, raising significant questions about copyright and artistic ownership. After being released on September 20, the track garnered impressive attention, amassing 21,000 views before it was mysteriously removed from YouTube on August 19. The removal, attributed to a claim by a user known as @Kwetus, has sparked debates within the industry regarding the challenges artists face with copyright issues.
Background of the Track
“Nichumu,” a song that showcased the artistic synergy between Roby Tone and Aslay, was expected to be a significant entry in the Tanzanian music scene. With its engaging melody and relatable lyrics, the track resonated with fans, quickly climbing the charts and gaining traction on various digital platforms, especially TikTok. The song not only highlighted the talents of both artists but also contributed to the growing popularity of Bongo Flava music beyond Tanzania’s borders.
The Copyright Claim
The situation escalated when the song was removed under the pretense of copyright infringement. The user @Kwetus claimed ownership, alleging that the song violated copyright laws. In a bid to rectify the issue, Roby Tone reached out to the producer for clarification. However, his attempts to communicate were met with silence, leaving him in a state of confusion and frustration.
YouTube’s response to Roby Tone’s counter-notification was disheartening. They stated:
“We regret it is not clear to us if you have a legitimate reason to submit a counter-notification, therefore we will not be able to address your request.”
AUDIO: Robytone Ft. Aslay – Nichumu Mp3 Download | Side Makini Blog
This response indicates the complexities artists face when trying to protect their work in the digital age. YouTube’s policies often favor rights holders, which can sometimes lead to the unjust removal of content created in good faith.
Impact on Roby Tone’s Career
Despite the setback, Roby Tone remains optimistic about “Nichumu.” The song continues to thrive on digital platforms, attracting attention and engagement on TikTok, where users participate in various challenges related to the track. This indicates that the song still has the potential to make a significant impact, even amidst the current challenges.
Roby Tone has publicly expressed his suspicions towards Kwetus Studio, hinting at a possible ulterior motive behind the copyright claim. This incident serves as a reminder of the struggles many artists endure in an industry that is often fraught with legal and logistical hurdles.
Conclusion
The removal of “Nichumu” from YouTube highlights a broader issue within the music industry regarding copyright claims and the protection of artistic work. As Roby Tone navigates this challenge, he exemplifies the resilience required to thrive in the competitive world of music. The support from fans and the continued popularity of the song on platforms like TikTok may provide him with the momentum needed to overcome this hurdle. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Roby Tone will address these challenges and reclaim his rightful place in the Tanzanian music scene.
