Lockdown causes big spike in SA music piracy

WITH SA residents in lockdown owing to the coronavirus pandemic, music piracy has reached new highs with illegitimate platforms offering illegal downloads to copyrighted music.

According to the Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA), digital music piracy has hit the roof during this time and more artists are feeling the squeeze.

A statement by RISA CEO, Nhlanhla Sibisi, has revealed that songs such as eMcimbini by Scorpion Kings, Love Letter by Blaq Diamond, Tender Love by Sha Sha, featuring the Scorpion Kings, Umlilo by DJ Zinhle, Love You Tonight by MFR Souls as well as the Joyous 24 album, have been downloaded the most

‘To overcome the lockdown blues that the country is going through, South Africans have turned to music for solace and companionship. Regrettably, this has resulted in an unfortunate and alarming increase of online music piracy,’ Sibisi said.

He called on consumers to reject piracy and access music via credible online platforms.

‘The message has been sent out for many years, piracy robs musicians of their income.

‘We ask music lovers to support real talent. Musicians make a living from the sales of their music and piracy prevents that.

‘We understand that the current lockdown in the country has left many in need of entertainment, but let’s support our artists the right way and not commit a criminal offense,’ concluded Sibisi.

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