Veteran entertainer Charles Oputa, widely known as Charly Boy, has issued a warning to Premier Records Limited, alleging a breach of contractual terms in musical agreements signed approximately 35 years ago. In a letter penned by his lawyer, Mr Rockson Igelige, and disclosed to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Charly Boy expressed his intention to take legal action against the record label.
The letter, dated June 19, 2023, states that Charly Boy entered into Artists Recording Contracts with Premier Records in 1988, 1990, and more recently. However, he contends that these contracts have expired, yet Premier Records continues to infringe upon his copyrights to the musical works.
In the correspondence, the lawyer demands that Premier Records deliver Charly Boy's master tapes, artworks, promotional materials, and any other pertinent and confidential information within 30 days from the date of the letter. Additionally, they request the payment of outstanding royalties owed to their client.
According to Igelige, the affected albums include one recorded in 1990 featuring songs such as "Big Bottom," "Aids," "Sexy Lady," "Mama," and "Nwata Miss." Another album listed is titled "U-Turn" and contains songs including "Akula," "Sheri," "Comfort," "Civilian Barrack," and "Akula" (Instrumental). Additionally, an album titled "Reality" is mentioned, which includes songs such as "Monkey," "Family Support," "No.6 Man," "Give Me Life," "Lagos Life," and "Baby Come Back."
The lawyer argues that the terms of the contracts entered into with the company, initially known as Polydor Record in 1988, then Polygram Records Limited in 1990, and presently Premier Records Limited, have expired due to the passage of time. Therefore, they formally notify Premier Records to cease any further infringement on Charly Boy's copyrights pertaining to the musical works produced during the aforementioned expired contract periods.
"This is a legal notice that any subsequent breach following the receipt of this letter will result in legal action. We trust and hope that your company will comply with our client's reasonable demands," the lawyer concludes.
