Amidst the controversy surrounding the popular Ghanaian gospel song 'Defe Defe,' a potential lawsuit is looming over the track. Renowned artiste manager Nana Poku Ashis has commented that Team Eternity Ghana made a mistake.

The dispute centers on the alleged unauthorized use of a line from the 2004 song 'Defe Defe' by Hallelujah Voices, written by Osuani Afrifa and executively produced by Kwame Mickey for Kaakyire Music Productions. The 2024 song by Team Eternity features the same line in its lyrics.

On June 19, 2024, Nana Poku Ashis shared a video on Facebook comparing both songs and highlighted the ways an artiste could use another's work legally. He claimed that Team Eternity committed several infringements, including re-recording, copyright infringement, sampling, and lifting. Ashis stressed that permission from the original creators should have been obtained and advised against supporting the unauthorized use of others' work.

"It is very clear that they have infringed on the rights of the legend. They should have just sought permission from the legend; respect is due where it must go. Let us not encourage such acts; just a phone call would have solved all these issues. Artistes must ensure they get proper clearance and obtain permission from the original creators before using their work. Give credit: Acknowledge the original creator," he posted.

Background

Kwame Mickey, the executive producer for Hallelujah Voices, claims that Team Eternity Ghana has unlawfully used the 'Defe Defe' phrase in their new song. While some argue that the expression 'Defe Defe' cannot be exclusively owned by Hallelujah Voices, others note the lyrical similarities between the two songs. Hallelujah Voices' version includes the line "Manhyia Nyame a anka ɔbonsam ayɛ me defe defe," whereas Team Eternity's version goes "Manhyia Nyame a anka y’ayɛ me defe defe."

This controversy has sparked discussions on copyright laws and the importance of obtaining permission before using elements from others' work in new creations.